Study on Tall Ship ELISSA

So I just completed a new study of 1877 tall ship ELISSA, the boat I have had the privilege of volunteering on as crew for almost two years now (that’s crazy!). 

The Inspiration

I was inspired to create this study while working on deck. I remember being on maintenance crew while sails were being set. Walking up the gangway, I had to stop and take it all in. The main course sail (the biggest, lowest sail on the main mast) had just been set, and captured the light beautifully while the lines of the boat cast a choreographed shadow in slow motion behind it. Dang…I work on this boat, I thought to myself. 

And then I quickly ran down the gangway back to my task so I actually looked like I was doing something…but that’s beside the point. 
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The Essence

With this piece, I challenged myself to a larger canvas, so as to capture more detail. The goal was enhancing life-likeness while keeping the emotion and focal point the same (i.e., you don’t lose the boat through all the lines). I wanted to create something that was eye-catching from a distance, but then persistently yielded more and more detail and softness as it drew in the viewer. This creates an interactive experience from all distances, and inspires something like awe and appreciation for the subject herself. 

Availability

Finished in both acrylic and oil mediums for enhanced depth and color value, she is a striking 24x30 inches and is the largest painting of ELISSA I have done to date. This piece can be promptly shipped as soon as the varnish is applied. She is priced at $975, with installments available - share with someone you think might love to own the original! Prints are also available on my website.

Okay here's the bonus info: if you haven't checked it out already, ELISSA goes sailing this April and you bet your bottom dollar I'll be there! Tickets are still available for sale - find more information at galvestonhistory.org.