There is nothing that special to see when looking at me. I'm a painter who paints day in day out, from morning till evening - figure pictures and landscapes, more rarely portraits.

Although even when I am being idle I have plenty of food for thought both early and late - thoughts both about and not about art.

Even when I have to write a simple letter I'm scared stiff as if faced with looming seasickness.

There is always hope, as long as the canvases are empty.

Sometimes I miss out the morning's painting session and instead study my Japanese books in the open.

After tea it's back to painting - a large poplar at dusk with a gathering storm. From time to time instead of this evening painting session I go bowling in one of the neighbouring villages, but not very often.

On my first days here I did not start work immediately but, as planned, I took it easy for a few days - flicked through books, studied Japanese art a little.