In the summer I like to be outside the most. I enjoy nature, the beautiful weather and all kinds of daytrips. And although the days are longer, time seems to pass even faster than in the other seasons. It is also the season in which I have the least inspiration and that is why I find it the ideal period to experiment in my sketchbook and thus gain new ideas and test other materials. I do not concern myself with finished illustrations and like to make quick drawings based on photos or observations without thinking about the result. Do you also like to draw in a sketchbook?
At the beginning of summer, I travelled with my sister to the Lake District and visited Beatrix Potter's house, Hill Top, in the village of New Sawrey. The cottage and garden, the village and the surroundings are the places where many of her stories are set. The bright green iron gate in particular looks like a lifelike version of one of Beatrix Potter's illustrations.
Beatrix was a fierce advocate for the preservation of the beautiful Lake District countryside and thanks to her efforts and donation to the National Trust we can still enjoy this exceptional environment today.
In the house itself you can see old portraits, photographs and the desk where she wrote. You can also admire the old merchandise because in that too Beatrix was far ahead of her time.
Because everything has been preserved in its original state you can feel in her presence for a moment which is very special. I found it very moving and inspiring and if you like the work of Beatrix Potter it is definitely recommended.
I hope you enjoyed a lovely summer too?