The Canticle of St Francis on Lelant Beach 

John Miller created this artwork, titled 'The Canticle of St Francis on Lelant Beach', using oil paint on canvas. The first impression is of a monochromatic field of orange, yet the subtle variations achieved with oil paint are crucial. Note the texture, how it's built up in layers, especially in the lower section and towards the horizon line. The artist's hand is subtly present in the blending and brushwork, revealing a depth within what appears to be a simple composition. A small figure is visible on the beach, but it is the quality of light and the painting process that speaks most profoundly. Oil painting, with its slow drying time and potential for layering, allowed Miller to build up this meditative surface. While seemingly simple, the work’s impact lies in the artist's skilled handling of a traditional material. It asks us to appreciate the labor, the careful eye, and the hours of contemplation that went into its creation. Ultimately, it challenges us to see the profound in the everyday, bridging the gap between simple materials and fine art.