last month, Ben took me to Brighton for our year anniversary. We took the train down, passing through London on the way. 

Brighton was shockingly windy. The force of it blew us backwards; it froze our ears and hands, and we could hardly talk. I cannot express how cold it was! but we walked on the beach anyway, and braved the exposed decking of the famous pier.

  As the day went on the weather became more fair and more beautiful. We ate fish and chips near the sea, and wandered the streets until it got dark. We ate Chinese on the pier and gazed out at the lights on the shore. there was something magical about the town, especially when it got dark, especially hand in hand with the boy I love.

Inspired by the Pre Raphaelites, Jenny Saville and A Streetcar named desire, I made these paintings to show the character of Blanche's habit of inventing a personality for herself which is far removed from the sordid, fragile reality.

Desolate

Portraits of Strangers

As my day in London went by, I got more confident in secretly photographing people who I thought looked interesting. I was definitely noticed several times, but it was worth it!

London

On Monday I went to London. I love it there, and one day I'd love to live there for a while. (although I imagine that a large proportion of people my age share that dream!) The day was very foggy and quite damp, but the city was as busy as ever. We ate lunch in Hyde park, where my Dad was accosted by squirrels and dogs alike, and the sounds of London faded to a continuous sigh in the background. We visited the Tate Britain, and saw the Pre Raphaelite exhibition, which was wonderful. As it got dark we wandered from the  West End through to Leicester Square and then China town, which was full of lights and lanterns. The air was full of the smells of Chinese cooking and it was perfect.

And then it was time to leave.

I don't really know why I am starting a blog. I like writing, I like sharing, and I want to put my photos somewhere other than Flickr. It doesn't really matter if anyone sees this-but I'll be happy if anyone does!