Travel – The South West Coast Path

Inspired by the Coast: Joe Webster

This month’s Inspired by the Coast feature introduces the work and thinking of Joe Webster, known as Feral, a Devon-based artist whose practice is deeply rooted in the wild landscapes of the South West coast. Blending the immediacy and graphic energy of street art with the tradition of plein air landscape painting, Joe creates work that is shaped as much by the elements as by his own hand. From painting through storms and sea spray to exploring themes of connection, resilience and ecological change, his art invites us to see nature not as a backdrop, but as a living, dynamic force. In this interview, Joe reflects on the influences behind his work, the profound impact of the coastline on his creative vision, and why the South West Coast Path remains an enduring source of inspiration, reflection and belonging.

Inspired by the Coast

Inspired by the Coast: Jo Payne

For North Devon artist Jo Payne, the coast is both inspiration and muse. Drawing on the ever-changing skies, shimmering seas and dramatic landscapes that surround her home, Jo creates expressive, elemental artworks that capture the beauty and atmosphere of the coastline. Working primarily in acrylics, often enhanced with gold, silver or copper leaf and handmade collage materials, her process blends intuition with craftsmanship. Daily walks along the South West Coast Path and the North Devon coast provide a constant source of inspiration, from sweeping horizons and changing light to hidden coves, harbours and rugged headlands. Rather than painting specific locations, Jo absorbs the colours, textures and emotions of the coast, allowing them to emerge naturally through her work.

Inspired by the Coast

Inspired by the Coast: Maggie Cochran

Discover the creative world of Cornish-based artist Maggie, whose stunning paintings are inspired by daily walks along the dramatic Cornish coastline. In this inspiring interview, Maggie shares how the changing light, shifting tides, wild coastal landscapes and powerful emotions she experiences by the sea shape her distinctive work in oil and cold wax.

SWCP Journeys

On the Edge: Walking the South West Coast Path with Limited Sight

A selection of images entered into the 2025 SWCP Photographer of the Year Competition introduced us to one of our valuable members, Lena Welch, and her epic challenge to walk the South West Coast Path in stages. Friends and walk supporters captured some special moments on the Jurassic Coast section with one photograph being awarded a third place in the People and Path category of the competition. We are delighted to share Lena’s journey so far.

Environment Explore Wildlife

Summer Solstice, puffins and fairies

We have reached our longest day of light. A liminal time making way for extended possibilities to explore our natural world, and to reflect upon the abundance of wildlife along the South West Coast Path.

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Behind the Lens III

A photo essay of the 2025 Photographer of the Year winning images PLUS the runner up images. Discover the story behind the lens and read about the photographers who have inspired our judges, and captured some truly stunning images of their time on the South West Coast Path in 2025.