Morning Mist, watercolor

This is such a tranquil scene. An early morning mist on the water, soon to be burned off by the rising sun provides an atmosphere that lends itself to watercolor.

The small boat has an engine box which houses an outboard motor. Due to its location near the center of the boat it makes for a very maneuverable craft. Ideal for setting nets, with no engine hanging over the stern to get in the way, this arrangement is preferred by many net fishermen.

Detail of Morning Mist

Starboard Mooring, watercolor

A small trawler moored on its starboard side. What attracted me to this scene, in addition to the boat, were the pilings with their variety of shapes and colors. The way the docking lines hang from them provides a sculptural element which helps to create a foreground interest which is very much needed to make the composition work.

Pasture Pair, watercolor

A common site up and down the coast is the species of bird know as the Cattle Egret. These birds are attracted to insects, particularly grasshoppers which are stirred up by the cattle walking or grazing.

Top of the Mast, egg tempera

The top of the mast of a small fishing trawler. The ropes and pulleys are used to haul in the nets of these boats. Here the strong diagonal created by the rake of this mast is what initially attracted me. The additional diagonals of the chain and ropes serve to only strengthen the composition. Another interesting element is the high contrast distorted shadow cast on the mast by the rope and hook. Weathering of the wood and metal surfaces called for egg tempera. The detail image below provides a closer look at the ability of the tempera medium to represent such a subject.

Detail of Top of the Mast