Boats II 

Joan Brull, active in Barcelona at the turn of the 20th Century, painted this evocative scene, Boats II, capturing a moment of quiet industry. Brull was a part of the Catalan Symbolist movement, an artistic and literary response that was fueled by political and social unrest. Here we see a beach populated with modest fishing boats; it’s a snapshot of everyday life for working class Catalans. The muted colors and soft brushstrokes create an atmosphere of tranquility, yet, these boats speak to the labor and livelihoods tied to the sea. Brull wasn't just painting boats; he was depicting a way of life deeply intertwined with the Catalan identity and economy. This artwork exists as a reminder of a time of change and cultural awakening; it serves as a mirror reflecting both the serenity and the struggles inherent in the Catalan experience.