Painting: questions and Band 8 answers

Not particularly, to be honest. I've never been very artistic, so whenever I try to sketch or paint something, it usually turns out looking a bit of a mess. I do appreciate other people's artwork, though, even if I can't produce anything decent myself.

Yes, we had art lessons at primary school every week. I remember we used watercolours quite a bit to paint landscapes and still life objects like fruit bowls. It was always quite messy, but I really enjoyed experimenting with different colours back then.

Every few months or so, I'd say. Whenever I go on a weekend trip to a new city, I usually try to drop into a local gallery or exhibition. The last one I went to had some fascinating modern oil paintings that really caught my eye.

I tend to go for minimalist or abstract prints with fairly subtle tones. I actually have a couple of framed canvas prints in my living room with soft blues and greys, because I find they create a calm atmosphere without cluttering the walls.

I think so, yes. It would be a great way to unwind after a stressful week at work. If I ever find the spare time, I'd love to join an evening oil painting workshop to learn the basic brushwork techniques properly.