March is on its way, marking the beginning of my painting season. The first excursion of the year is as always my flight south, towards the sun and warmer climes of Morocco. I can’t wait to see Ali, his family, and our friends and start painting in the deserts and spring valleys of Morocco.

My suitcase is out of the cupboard and filling fast with tubes of paint and sun cream, easels and brushes. A few garments might just fit on top.

The warmth and hospitality of our host in Morocco always makes it so hard to leave. However, the suitcases have barely passed the front door back in London, then it’s off to Hampshire for a family Easter.

In April I change my palette from the rich oranges and cerulean blues of North Africa to fresher colours to capture the Sicilian spring. The Italian season begins with my stay at the Fattoria Mosé where another warm welcome awaits us. 2010 looks to be the busiest ever with courses in Morocco and Sicily fully booked and only a few spaces left on my Tuscany trips.

For those of you who are not able to join me this year in Morocco, here are a few photos to give you a glimpse of what you are missing.