ABOUT THIS PAINTING

A set of three small watercolour studies illustrating dramatic storm cloud formations over the sea, each capturing a distinct stage of development.

The opening piece depicts a shower streaking across the sea, driven by gale-force winds. Glimmers of sunlight pierce through the cloud layers, illuminating the rain shaft and the breaking waves below. In the intermediate study, a thunderous cumulonimbus cloud develops, with torrential rain extending in a narrow column from its base—possibly a sign of a mesocyclone (a telltale sign of a tornado). Finally, the concluding study captures an emerging waterspout (the marine equivalent of a tornado), enveloped by a curtain of rain and hail skimming across the distant horizon.

The studies, though seemingly loose and expressive, required numerous attempts to achieve the precise effects needed to depict the specific weather formations.

While it was a highly enjoyable set to produce, it involved significant effort, which is reflected in its higher price. The set is also elegantly presented in bespoke frames with a slender aspect ratio, complementing the sleek composition of each study.