On the Rocks 1956

Tom Lovell’s ‘On the Rocks’ captures figures lounging in the sun with oil paint. Imagine Lovell standing before the canvas, squinting, mixing shades of blue and tan, trying to capture that perfect highlight on the swimmer’s back. Look at how he lays down the colours, thick and juicy. The texture gives the painting an almost tactile feel, as if you could reach out and feel the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the water. I love the water’s edge. With just a few brushstrokes, Lovell creates the illusion of depth and movement, doesn't he? It's all light and energy. Painters are always talking to each other across time, and Lovell’s painting reminds me of the Impressionists, always chasing the light. It’s not about capturing the perfect likeness, but about capturing a feeling, a moment in time. With this painting, Lovell invites us to dive into his world. He makes you want to be right there, on those rocks, soaking up the sun.