Interrupted by Covid and the aftermath of my 'River' exhibition, here, finally, are the rowers, exactly a month on from when I started them. I began them in order to feature human life on the river, and was intrigued by how coxless rowers face backwards - except for the one who has watch where they're going. As you can see, the autumn leaves were beginning to fall and the river reflected a dull sky as the boat raced diagonally across it, cutting the water like glass. My daughter rowed and showed me how you need to cross your hands to protect your knuckles - and how the power comes, not from the arms, but mainly from the legs. And long legs help. The more I painted the more I appreciated the geometry and physics of the boat with its balanced 'riggers' and its sleek design. Today, I'm taking this to a friend in London, on my way to see Cezanne at Tate Modern. |