think it may be difficult to imagine that when the initial studies for this image were complete, there were in fact no boats in the view. I took advantage of making separate studies of the boats that I wanted in the painting, this gave me full control of the final image. How often have I said to myself "If only the boats were in slightly different positions". This is artistic licence at its best. One is able to contrive the ideal composition yet it still holds true as far as credibility goes, (got to keep the locals happy!). I never paint a harbour scene when the tide is in. As an artist I love to see the rusty chains, sea weed, and ribbons of water that can inject light into the deepest shadows. Another advantage of catching the tide out is the fact that the boat masts are all at funny angles, a god send for a good composition.
Litho print, overall size 17" x 12½", image size 13" x 9½"
Signed limited edition of 500