Riding The Wave

Clouds Are Thoughts

Things That Attract My Eye – Part 22

It’s been a while since I added to this segment. The images below were taken in March and April this year. We’ve certainly had some beautiful skies of that time. I always enjoy looking at, and taking photos of clouds etc. They also make excellent backgrounds for my poems. 🙂

Till next time!

Written & Photographed by David Johnson

26 July 2025

Visual Enrichment

New Era

Valerie Taylor – An Adventurous Life!

This morning, I finished the book that is the title of this post. I had started the book earlier this year, but as sometimes happens, distractions and life in general get in the way and the book didn’t get picked up for some time.

Over the past two to three weeks, my Wife and I have had the displeasure of experiencing the RSV virus so we have had more time at home than is normal. Time spent convalescing also gives one time to think about life, but I’ll save that for another post.

Back to the book, which itself was a pleasant distraction at a time of illness.

I remember as a child/teenager growing up in the late 60’s and into the ’70’s hearing about some of the adventures of Ron & Valerie Taylor, so I uttered a keen ‘Yes’ when my Father-In-Law asked me if I would to read this book.

My interest in Ron & Valerie sprang from them being Underwater Photographers/Film-makers, in particular their filming of Sharks. They filmed the underwater scenes in Jaws, which was a favourite movie of mine back in the ’70’s.

The book is an inspirational read, and as it highlights on the back cover, Valerie had to overcome many obstactles, including health issues to lead ‘her adventurous life.’

I highly recommend this book!

Wriiten by David Johnson

6 July 2025

Turning The Page

A Journey Uncharted

Going Outside One’s Comfort Zone! – Attempting Different Subjects

I’ve been wanting to explore this subject for some time. I’ve just recently joined the ‘Seascape Art’ group on Facebook and have been marvelling at the creations of artists much more experienced than I. The paintings on there are quite inspiring!

Materials used above are:

  • A5 Aquarelle 100% Cotton Cold Press sketchbook purchased from Amazon
  • Kuretake Gansai Tambi Japanese Watercolours
  • Aquawash Brushes
  • White Gel pen
  • Colours used: Turquoise Green Deep; Indigo and White

Have to say that I am happy with my first attempt. Looking forward to doing this subject on higher quality paper.

Till next time!

Written & Painted by David Johnson

9 June 2025

Gift Of Light