Status of Original Painting – For Sale

All prices are in Canadian dollars

Size: 13.5 x 20  inches

Price: Inquire

Medium: Watercolour on 300 lb Arches

Description:

We were driving along Route 16 through the small town of Chance Cove (population 213) when this colorful scene caught my eye. I turned the car around and got out to take some photos. The owner, who lives across the street, came out to tell me about the history of this engine, which belonged to his father. He demonstrated another one in working condition inside a nearby shed, but I was more interested in the outdoor scene that juxtaposed the abandoned engine and overturned boat with stacks of firewood and greenery. This scene is packed with many elements that I want in a painting, including man-made devices decaying in nature, contrasts of bright and dark, multiple colors, smooth and roughened surfaces, and even a bit of ocean in the background (specifically, Little Chance Cove). There was so much in each reference  photo that I balked at painting this scene until now.

Stationary double flywheel engines served many purposes in Newfoundland’s past, including hauling boats and nets up from the ocean, operating a mill, or generating electricity. This one declares itself to be a BULL DOG, a brand that was manufactured by Bates and Edmonds in Lansing, Michigan. Two prior paintings of mine have depicted similar engines. “Iceberg in Elliston” features a Double Gear Crab Winch made by United Nail and Foundry Company in St. John’s, Newfoundland, while “Mill Power” featured one made by Fairbanks-Morse in Wisconsin. Some of these engines are over 100 years old and are quite collectible, especially when in working condition.

Chance Cove is known for a 2.5 km rugged hiking trail that rewards you with multiple views of striking ocean scenery, two of which I’ve captured in my paintings “Sea of Tranquility” and “Beware of Cliff.”

My wife Lisa suggested the title that I preferred; my own working titles were “Forgotten Past,” “Old Relics,” and “Backyard Memories.” I may use those titles someday…