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
I am back in London after a busy summer and am happily back in my studio. Just this week I finished a new painting which today I am pleased to publish here. It is based on the engraving by Albrecht Dürer shown below. This was first published in 1513. The armed and armoured knight canters into … More Death, Knight and the Devil
Hello everyone, Today’s painting is one that is featured as the banner for my new website. We needed one that was graphic and also fit the necessary dimensions. We hope you like this painting and the new layout! I started this painting after America went into Iraq, hence the red, white and blue on left-hand … More Baghdad
Kalypso, the daughter of Atlas, rescues Odysseus after a shipwreck and keeps him on her island for seven years. Though she is not without her charms, Odysseus longs to return to his home. I wanted to give Kalypso a wild animal look, and him a look of longing out to sea, and eyes are an … More Kalypso
Hello people, our theme today is “The Performers”; artistes who entertain us on the stage. Here in the first painting we have perhaps the lion tamer and his lovely assistant. The lion looks more like a big cat, so the danger is somewhat exaggerated, and the facial expressions accordingly deadpan. I like the simple shapes … More The Performers
Barry Trower 