The Story of Tethered | A Fishing Boat Moment in Oil

Private Collection, shown at the Perkins Gallery show at the Striar JCC, Canton, MA circa 2005

This painting is a collaboration with my father and embodies a serene moment captured through the lens of both photography and oil painting. Papa’s passion for photography has been imprinted and etched across my entire life. This picture caught my breath and I wanted to recreate it with the brilliance and lushness of oils on canvas.

The focal point rests on a solitary fishing boat gently swaying on the tranquil waters. The faded blues of the sun-kissed boat reflect with warmth, invoking a sense of nostalgia and a simpler life. It's as if the boat itself is a character, poised between the familiarity of the shore and the boundless expanse of the ocean. Bounty awaits.

Yet, it's not just the boat that captivates; it's the subtle details that breathe life into the scene. The slight tension in the rope. The gentle breeze hinted at through the movement of the waves adds an element of dynamism to the otherwise tranquil tableau. It was a delight to create this collaborative endeavor - my homage to Papa’s lifelong passion for photography.

My Oil Painting Process

One of the painting's challenges lies in capturing the intricacies of the fishing nets without overwhelming the composition with excessive detail. I chose to navigate this delicate balance with suggestive brushstrokes rather than define, allowing the viewer's imagination to fill in the gaps and weave their narrative within the tapestry of the painting.

Gems to Explore in Coastal Maine

While I can’t guarantee a fishing boat, the coast of Maine is dotted with endless tiny harbors, coves, and magic places. To me, they are a destination to sit on a rock and gaze at the sea, to sit on a bench in the sun to read a book, or my favorite, to bring a picnic and enjoy the mid-afternoon sun. Our coastlines are often impacted by tide - so the time of the day creates a variety of scenes.

• South Freeport Harbor off the main road, is a gem to enjoy seafood on a small town working dock

• Boothbay Harbor destination worthy, rocky shoreline, sea air, harbor town, and restaurants.

• Winslow Park Campground family-friendly, with a summer concert series

• Maquoit Landing at Wharton Point tiny moment in Brunswick, my favorite for a picnic with a friend or the pup, often can watch the coming and going of those headed out to their oyster farm or clamming.