This winter I’ve continued my exploration with figures on Cape Ann’s Good Harbor and Cape Hedge beaches. Figures tell stories, and a group of figures in the context of the ocean, time of day, season, and the cape’s light offers infinite possibilities.
Waiting for Venus, 20 x 30, oil
“Waiting for Venus” (click to enlarge) was finished in time for the Rocky Neck Now 2018 show in March. This is a story on Good Harbor Beach, late in the day. The sun is just dropping below the horizon and the locals are lingering. The big swells of the surf from the storm the day before, spaced nicely about 12 seconds between waves, are strong and easy rides.
The Songs We Sing, 24 x 36, oil
“The Songs We Sing” takes place on a midsummer day at the south end of Cape Hedge Beach. The group of girls is engaged in… what kind of conversation? Why is the black lab so intrigued, or does it just want some attention? The rock ledge parts letting the water in and allowing your eye to flow into the background.
The latest painting is “Good Harbor Sunrise”. This is less about the four figures at the water’s edge than it is about the unique combination of clouds backlit by the bright, morning orb. Do you find yourself squinting? This piece takes some inspiration from the works of Rockwell Kent.
Good Harbor Sunrise, 24 x 36, oil
Hope to see you on the tour, June 2 & 3. You can also visit my studio any time by appointment, or you can find my works at Rocky Neck Gallery 53 (opens May 25th), Gloucester, and at Muzio Designs (year round), Essex.
Click here for more about Rob Diebboll
