Stone
Beach by
Humphrey
As one treks
through the dense autumn hued forest, the dense foliage finally clears to
reveal a secluded beach comprised of smoothly eroded stones and an azure inlet
of water. A discovery of a secret cove to those who have ventured forth the
distance and have at last found their place of rejuvenation. All is quiet in
Humphrey's "Stone Beach" and there is a serene calm that is gently
infused throughout the atmosphere of this painting, even in the presence of
intense color.
Although
inspired by nature, the hues Humphrey employs are richly saturated and further
serve to express the vitality and aliveness of the landscape. This rich
vibrancy of color, especially applied in the leaves of the trees and the flora
surrounding the beach contrasts with the tranquil blue of the bay’s water and
the subtle muted earth tones of the tree covered hills on the opposite shore.
Across the
water in the distance, the source of light is highlighted in fine gossamer mist
that is diffused in the right side of the painting behind the trees in the
foreground, which lends a mysterious quality to the work. The light in the
center of the composition is accented by the concentration of highlights on the
water, providing the painting’s focal point and creating a final resting place
visually and mentally.
©Katherine Shevchenko - Art Consultant, J.R. Mooney
Gallery, Boerne
