International Artist – June-July 2019

Art Challenge 7

Third Prize is a one-page editorial feature in American Art Collector magazine

Susan Cockburn Ontario, Canada, Breton Cove Breaker, oil, 24 x 24" (61 x 61 cm)

My Inspiration
Along the Atlantic shore of Northern Cape
Breton Island, the ocean is sometimes
relatively calm, but large waves form and
crash close to the shore. In early autumn
mornings, the cool air and low angle of
the sun combine to create breathtaking
contrasts. Breton Cove Breaker attempts
to capture the light and energy of these
incredible waves. My work is inspired by
direct experience in nature and images that
compel me to present a unique perspective,
enlarged details or strong composition.

My Design Strategy
The challenge of this work was to explore
and convey the contrasts I saw and felt.
From an initial rectangular concept
including more of the scene, I began to

simplify, cropping repeatedly until a single,

stronger subject remained. Visual tension

was caused by containing that dynamic

subject in a square area and placing the

horizon line uncommonly close to the top

of that area. Although the centre of interest

is created with flowing circular elements that

lead the eye up through the brightly lit water

to the peak of the wave, the underlying

structure is a rigid, classic division of thirds.

The main subject is complex and detailed

but the background simple. The design was

strengthened by a colour palette of vivid yet

cool pigments.

My Working Process

I explored concepts using photography, and

then worked from a half-sized colour print

of the digital sketch. A small technique

study was done before moving on to a

detailed graphite drawing on the gessoed

birch panel. I prepared paint by pre-mixing

a range of tints using a simple palette.

Main areas were blocked in with light

washes, focusing on establishing contrast.

Details were carefully rendered with

smooth, directional brushstrokes. The lace

effect in the wave was created by painting

the negative shapes of the light. Multiple

glazes in purple, blue and green darkened

the shadows to support the highlights.

Pure white and harder edges finished off

the focal point. The last step was adding

splatters and splotches of white spray—

that’s the really fun part!

Contact Details

» Email: [email protected]

» Website: http://www.susanjc.com We eventually turn art principles into our own. — Harley Brown