Jesse cannot resist “lurcher bombing” the photo!

It seems so strange that a year ago we commenced “lockdown” with all its terrors, discoveries and challenges. With this adored four legged creature, who loves a daily run, life would become a bit of a challenge. The restrictions of only being allowed out for exercise, once a day, can’t be explained to a wee beastie like Jesse and we took to one big morning walk, and two “one human/one dog” walk each. Stretching the rules a bit, stretching the legs even more!

And we took to being more in tune and more aware with our surroundings, our hearing and our experiences. Winter was slowly giving way to Spring, with all the exciting “first sightings” that were offered on a daily basis - the first snowdrop, crocus, daffodil. And along the way, I took to observing the man hole covers in Malvern!

Yes, really! Want to see some?

So, as time went on, so did my interest in the manhole covers of Malvern grow. Heaven forbid, I’d forget my phone! Several times, even though the traffic was minimal, I had to jump out of the way of the few cars that came across me, poised over something in the middle of the road with a camera!

I began to learn the variety of design, the intricate things that made them different, and the way “life” took it’s toll on the fiercely strong cast metal.

I now have a collection of over 100 different manholes! And am aware that there are so many more out there, yet to be divined. Someone somewhere took a great pride in the manholes, and I wish they knew how entertained I became with them.

It took a whole year for me to suddenly get inspired! I just love this blocking pattern, and it reinforces my satisfaction for a graphic bold design, which can be used to promote colour in a complimentary way, and add a pattern of style with my crêpe de chine silk scarves.

I started by just selecting one colour for the background, and another for the blocks with one block a “surprise” colour, just like the odd leaf or piece of litter that disrupts the regularity.

And here’s a finishing off of another piece!

so, as I finish off here, I just would like to stress that inspiration can come from the most unexpected sources, and it may take time to filter into your system, but once it does, have fun and play with it! Let it take you to fun corners, and travel the possibilities of what may seem mundane! Keep you eyes open, and all will be revealed!

Surprise sources of inspiration!