The White Drake by Joseph Crawhall.
Barry and I have just returned from one of the loveliest exhibitions. I could only find this link to illustrate some of the wonderful paintings. The exhibition has been so successful that the catalogue has sold out. (Very annoying!) The subject matter may seem to some a little sentimental perhaps, but at the time these were painted (1880-1890), the artists were rejecting "the mid- Victorian tradition of dramatic views of the Highlands and sentimental genre scenes in favour of a robust form of naturalism" (Royal Academy gallery guide). I guess I am a total sucker for a wonderfully painted landscape, a few ducks or geese and some beautifully painted children. I almost cried over the watercolour and gouache painting on linen, (above) a technique I have not seen before, of a white drake. It was absolutely gorgeous. There was also a superb black rabbit painted with the same technique, also by Joseph Crawhall.
What was interesting to me was that a few of these artists actually came down from Scotland to Lincolnshire to paint and in one of my favourites, 'To Pastures New' by James Guthrie, you can see Crowland Abbey in the distance!
Highlights were also the large painting of 'A Funeral Service in the Highlands' again by James Guthrie. All blacks and warm grey tones and dark sky looming in the distance over the men's (only) bowed heads. Very dour.
Plus a portrait of 'Willie, Old Wurthy' also by James Guthrie. It looks as if James Guthrie was my favourite!
As usual, seeing the paintings in reality is the only way to appreciate their incredible quality and skill. The thick luscious paint made me vow to get more paint on my canvas.
6 comments:
Hi Lynne, Thanks for sharing the show and the link. Wish I could see it in person...looks wonderful.
PS Inspired to put more paint...hmmm.
Why hmmmm?
Hi, Lynne, thank you for sharing these. The paintings look beautiful in your post; I can only imagine how breathtaking they must be in person. "To Pastures New" has always been one of my favorites as well, and Guthrie's portraiture is a great inspiration, although I've never had the opportunity to see any in person. I'm rather envious!
Thanks Karen. It really was the best. I just love paintings in almost any form, but this was special. I think you will have to go to Scotland to see them after the end of January. I would like to bring To Pastures New home and copy it just to learn! I don't think they will let me though!
Hi Lynne, From what I can tell about your paintings is that they are made from very thin glazes. More paint would be a big change..exciting in a new way. I can't wait to see. Your work is gorgeous!
You are correct Loriann, but I want to do more. Scary though!
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