This week we present a whimsical picture inspired by a book I haven’t actually read (though the story of Captain Ahab and his vengeful search for the great white whale seems to belong to popular culture). Here we see a whaling ship in the distance and the dreaded Moby Dick gliding silently below. Although our … More Moby Dick
As winter approaches, I look back longingly to the warm green days of summer. There we find Flora, the Roman goddess of flowering plants. Using simple shapes and transparent washes of colour, I feel I have successfully communicated an image of innocence and vegetable growth. As Picasso once wrote, “it takes a long time to … More Flora
A proscenium is the decorative arch which spans a theatre stage. The theatre is a theme that I have often been drawn to in my work. I first invented this image as a poster illustration for a Planet People concert poster. I then painted a second giant version on a bed sheet in black and … More Proscenium
Today we are featuring two imaginary landscapes: The first I titled “Discovery “, referring to the gentlemen in the distance here and what they have found. I wanted the fractured sculpture to give a feeling of crumbling civilization. The second is called “The Earthworms Lament” and is a much more colourful picture from a later … More Strange Landscapes!
In keeping with the seasonal nature of our blog, today’s post will cover the theme of Remembrance Day. In the past, this day has been an occasion to recognize the sacrifices of those of our citizens who fought in wars. Lately, however, I feel it has been increasingly used to celebrate militarism. I have chosen an … More Remembrance Day
In Greek mythology, Leda, the daughter and wife of kings, catches the eye of Zeus, who transforms himself into a swan to seduce her. These are two paintings of their encounter. The first is an older version done in oils in muted colours and a somewhat realistic style. I like the shadows and reflections, which … More Leda and the Swan
Once again I am presenting a drawing and the painting it inspired. In this case, the drawing was used as the poster illustration for a show of drawings I had in 1988. Here, the onlookers include the goateed art expert, a young female enthusiast, a wealthy little patron in the foreground, and lastly, the artist … More Artist and Patrons
There was a time when I thought it might be fun to illustrate books for children. “Where Harold Went” is a simple tale of an independent lad who spends a day going just about everywhere but still makes it home in time for bed. The pictures are full of simple shapes and the action moves … More Where Harold Went
Today, to celebrate the end of summer, I will feature three landscapes I made long ago which show Lake Erie from the beach at Port Burwell. This is one of my family’s favourite places to visit. The first was done in enamel paints which are drippy and wet, but were just the thing for a … More Beaches
This week we feature an old theme of lust from the Bible. In the story Susanna is observed at her bath by two elders who have sent her servants away. They attempt to take advantage of our heroine, but virtue and truth win out, and in the end the elders get their comeuppance. Here is … More Susanna at Her Bath
Barry Trower 