Duchess Pacific, City of Stoke on Trent

I am not in fact a true steam enthusiast but I love a challenge. The first thing I did in preparing for the project was to get to know at least two steam boffins that would be prepared to help me with the technical aspects of each rail subject. I then compiled as much hard copy visual reference material as I could, this included plans and working drawings (a tool of the trade as an ex engineering draughtsman).
I then did my arty bit and got stuck straight in. Perspective is of paramount importance with subject matter like this as an error in the perspective of one wheel can throw everything out. "Duchess Pacific, City of Stoke on Trent" threw up all the technical problems that can exist in the execution of a steam engine, and tested me to the limit, but boy did I enjoy it! Working from a pure side-on general layout illustration of the engine, I worked my way slowly starting with boiler and wheel centre lines. This is always a good starting base to work from as everything else is bolted on around this.

I wouldn't really call this canvas a fine art painting, but I couldn't resist it.

Giclee print, overall size 15½" x 11½", image size 13½" x 8½"
Signed open edition