Painting Grayson

At last the daily death rate in the UK appears to be falling rapidly. Although the timing is broadly in line with my original projections, it may be seen that the initial rate of infection was much higher, and the total numbers increased rapidly. Once lockdown was imposed, the curve flattened dramatically and I have revised the predicted total rate downwards to 40,000, and at the current rate, the final figure from this first wave is likely to be nearer 30,000 deaths. The lockdown has certainly been effective, and will soon be eased. But the one certainty is how little we know of this Chinese disease, only time can tell what will happen next.

Flowers from Mary-Anne

We received a mystery box in the post today, which contained six small pots of flowers, bright and cheerful. We discovered that Mary-Anne had sent it, which was lovely surprise.

We are also continuing our painting. We were inspired by Grayson Perry's new Channel 4 program, Art Club. On television he is boisterous and lively, with a ready laugh and totally encouraging to the artists who send him their work, but Ann looked him up to discover he came from a very poor background with a dreadful childhood. In homage I chose to paint a portrait of him and his wife, Philippa, who in contrast was from a very wealthy background having been to bording school and finishing school in Switzerland. I have therefore portrayed him with a deep, sad look rather that the jocular face he shows the world. Also, I have painted him in straight dress rather than his trademark doll-like cross dressing. Knowing now something of his background, I believe this is part of his front to the world, a thin cover for a deep unhappiness.

Grayson and Philippa Perry

His wife appears in the programmes as someone who is always there for him. I believe she is fiercly loyal, and would defend Grayson to the death. I have therefore tried to show her as standing behind his shoulder, with a look of  gritty determination to defend him from anyone who dares to attack him. She is an artist in her own right, but also a professional psychotherapist. She has a very round face, accentuated by huge circular glasses that dominate her face. They have already turned our lives to a new direction, and are both so expressive it is a pleasure to paint them.