Fishing off Hastings c. early 1810s

David Cox created "Fishing off Hastings" using watercolour, a medium that lends itself beautifully to atmospheric effects. Notice how the subtle gradations of tone evoke a misty, early morning on the coast. Cox masterfully uses the translucence of watercolour to create depth and a sense of receding space. The composition is structured around the repetition of vertical masts and sails, creating a rhythmic pattern that is both visually pleasing and structurally sound. The placement of the boats, carefully staggered, draws the eye into the distance, while the reflections in the water add another layer of complexity. This work transcends a simple maritime scene, inviting us to contemplate the interplay of light, water, and atmosphere, elements that were central to the Romantic movement's exploration of nature's sublime power. The structural clarity of the composition, combined with the emotional resonance of the scene, makes this a compelling work. It reminds us that art’s meaning is always evolving through new views and understandings.