Leaving the Shetlands

Everyone who works out of the Shetlands will recognise this image. I prefer seeing it as we sail back in rather than as we leave the coastline!

I was pleased with the way this painting turned out. When I started I wasn't sure how I should approach the work but decided it was best to paint it as a grisaille - a method of painting exclusively in shades of grey - although in this instance I used grey and blue.

Once I had established the deep shadows I added areas of light using lead white. It took over a week to dry before I could start again.
Finally I highlighted the contrast by adding the blues and Browns and touches of light where necessary.