Capturing the Essence of Urban Waterways

When I lived in Edinburgh, the canal basin at Fountainbridge was one of my favourite subjects. I think, in common with many people, artists are drawn to water as a source of inspiration. Urban waterways are a means to travel, transport goods and in recent years to support leisure pursuits.

This is the second piece in recent weeks in which I attempt to capture an image of old Brugge. I started with a photograph, taken on a very sunny day, from one of the bridges over the canal near where I was staying. Although not far from the centre, the streets were relatively quiet: only a man on a bicycle entering the frame.

As with my previous canal painting, I started by making a drawing in chalk pastel. This simplified version of the original photograph formed the basis of the final work.

The subsequent painting was executed in oils on panel board, primed and coated with an undercoat of grey gesso.

For a closer look at both of these pieces, visit my gallery page. If you are interested in buying any of my work, please contact me at artbysmart4@gmail.com