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Sunday Times Watercolour Competition
Entries 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2103, with contextual information. Approaching Shower – Calm Before The Storm Sunday Times Watercolour Competition 2016 Inspiration for the painting: observing approaching weather whilst walking on cliffs above Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire. Vertical rain rods and apparent tranquility contrast a floating, tethered building straining against the silent wind from an approaching storm. Time appears paused, the calm before the storm. 
Sheltered
Trees growing within an old, high walled nursery are sheltered from the elements and thrive. Trees outwith this safe haven are exposed to the full impact of the weather. Context The painting invites the viewer to consider other scenarios where a protective environment can be fundamental to survival. Above Average Rainfall Sunday Times Watercolour Competition 2014 
Above Average Rainfall
Is in response to the recent unprecedented periods of extreme weather, resulting in major flooding across Britain. The painting partially reveals passing time, never-ending days of rain and the statistical recording and analysis of rainfall. Observations It celebrates the altered landscape where sodden fields merge to form a new configuration with rainwater changing the normal lie of the land. A break in the clouds sheds light on the floodplain offering hope of better weather ahead. Context ‘This winter the UK has been affected very severely by an exceptional run of winter storms, culminating in serious coastal damage and widespread, persistent flooding. Although no individual storm can be regarded as exceptional, the clustering and persistence of the storms is highly unusual. December and January were exceptionally wet. For England and Wales this was one of, if not the most, exceptional periods of winter rainfall in at least 248 years.’ Met Office Report: The Recent Storms and Floods in the UK. February 2014 Red Lead – David Henderson
Sunday Times Watercolour Competition 2013 
‘Red Lead’
A series of observations from walks over several months around Stonehaven, where I live. Depicting a recently painted building in a forest, storm-damaged trees and new growth, a personal narrative layering actual and remembered structures. Observations and inspiration for the painting: The paint used to protect metal from rusting, intriguingly, cleverly is the colour of rust. It both protects against and merges with the rust. Rusting security grids on fisherman’s sheds by the harbour, allowing upper windows to open without weakening security. The natural cycle within forests, with evidence of storm damaged, fallen trees, lying rainwater and fresh growth. A rural, electricity substation, made secure by an open, metal grid, in the form of a building. To view more of David Henderson's work please visit the following links: Watercolour | Printmaking | Drawing |
