Groverake Lead Mine near Rookhope, Weardale

Charcoal on paper (120 x160cm)

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I used to drive past this on the way to a life drawing class near Allenheads.  An imposing structure sitting in a desolate moorland valley devoid of any notable features and dedicated primarily to the most egalitarian "sport" of grouse shooting. Working in the protection of a nearby derelict stone building I was able to complete the top drawing in less than a day. The distance from the base of the mine head to my feet became an important element (a feature often used by Van Gogh) hence the lower drawing completed the next day making a vertical panorama format of sorts.

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