Woolgoolga November 2024

Wave Crashing

by Reg Watson
(Portarlington)

Wave Crashing

Wave Crashing

I have been in awe of artists (like Mark) who can capture the energy of waves frozen on the canvas. I have been inspired by some oil paintings done by true masters in the late 1800s and later who captured dramatic scenes (probably around the Crimean area).

One such piece is posted widely and as far as I can tell is attributed to Ivan Aivazovsky (1817-1900). The power of his paintings are magical - so I am in awe and humbly try to learn what I can.

Here I tried to take it slowly. Struggling first with the ranges in the background which have to have subtle changes in value. Then the various shades and shadows in the actual waves. I really wanted to get into the bright foam but I held back until I had done what I could of all the shades in the shadow parts. I love the blue-green shades but actually there is mostly grey-greens in these traditional oils. I have to reign in my desire for bright veridians and pthalo greens.

Finally, the best part, the brightly lit foam. This is fun kicking it in the right directions to match the action.

I noticed the original artist used little traces of white to outline darker areas in the rock etc.

I painted the sides of the canvas to match and extend the scene.

It was a joy and quite an exercise.

Hope you like it

Reg

Comments for Wave Crashing

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Jul 18, 2024
 Captured to oerfection NEW
by: Sally Burke

You have done a wonderful job of this work. Hopefully you as pleased with the result as others will be also. We can be overly critical of our paintings…

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