This painting, and probably the next few, is a result of a recent trip to Spain. I was particularly moved by the chaotic way in which the roofs jostle together. There is a particular problem here in that some of these roofs are oddly shaped, appearing to defy the laws of perspective. I can’t decide whether this is an advantage or a disadvantage. I was also drawn to the light, particularly on the distant mountains. I like the way that the distant red rocks on the left hand side echo the shape of the town. The same could be said of the large house near the right hand side. This mirrors the crags directly above.

The painting is not finished and represents a departure for me - certainly in terms of the subject but also, perhaps, in terms of my approach. 

It has been tremendously exciting because I have felt like I am learning to paint in every sense. I am learning to find ways of describing new things. It is very easy to become tight.

I was looking at a black and white photo of the painting and couldn’t help being reminded of  the View of Toledo by El Greco. I have left the lower left hand area somewhat unfinished as it seemed to be particularly reminiscent and can remain as some kind of homage to his painting.  I also spent some time looking at the paintings of David Bomberg as a result of this painting and then Richard Diebekorn is there too.