Gone Fishing

Description

Gone Fishing! is a piece that perfectly captures the lively spirit of a coastal community and the delightful ambiguity of its title. On one level, it is a literal and vibrant depiction of a day’s work, with fishing boats bobbing in the bright blue harbour, their lines and masts creating a rhythm that echoes through the composition. The artist employs a brilliant, high key colour palette; the dazzling blues of the water, rendered in a mosaic of geometric shapes, create a feeling of movement and light. This is contrasted with the warm, familiar colours of the village, where crisp white walls are capped with red and blue roofs, suggesting a close-knit and spirited community. The almost cubist approach to form, with its playful angles and perspectives, infuses the entire scene with a sense of joyous activity.

Yet, the title also winks at us, suggesting a more personal escape, the idea of simply putting up a sign and heading out for a break from the everyday. This dual meaning gives the painting a wonderfully light hearted and carefree emotion, making it a perfect visual retreat. It speaks of both honest work and well deserved leisure, a celebration of a life beautifully lived by the sea.

Artist: Irma de Waal