Making Waves Lesley Harrison

The artwork presents a dynamic scene of an animal swimming through water. The subject, likely a dog given its form and features, is captured mid-stroke, propelling itself forward with considerable force. Water splashes dramatically around the body, creating a sense of movement and energy that dominates the composition.
Here we see a focus on capturing the physicality of the action; the artist has rendered the water with meticulous attention to detail, using varied brushstrokes to suggest both the surface ripples and the turbulent spray kicked up by the animal’s motion. The color palette is largely muted – browns, creams, and grays – which contributes to a naturalistic feel while also emphasizing the play of light on the waters surface.
The dog itself is depicted with a keen eye for anatomy; its musculature is evident in the way it moves through the water, conveying strength and agility. The head is turned slightly towards the viewer, suggesting alertness and purpose. This gaze implies an engagement with something beyond the frame, hinting at a potential pursuit or objective driving the animal’s actions.
The composition is horizontal, which reinforces the sense of forward momentum. Theres a deliberate lack of background detail; the focus remains entirely on the interaction between the animal and the water. This absence contributes to a feeling of isolation and immediacy, as if the viewer is witnessing this moment in time directly.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of freedom, power, and connection with nature. The dog’s effortless movement through the water suggests an innate ability to navigate and thrive within its environment. It could also be interpreted as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles or embracing challenges with determination. The overall impression is one of vitality and unrestrained energy.