#29410 Jesús Helguera Ausencia (1910-1971)

The artwork presents a maritime scene dominated by a small boat engaged in what appears to be a nighttime fishing expedition. The composition is structured around this central vessel, positioned slightly off-center and angled towards the viewer, creating a sense of immediacy and involvement. A large sail looms prominently above the boat, its substantial size contributing to the feeling of scale and emphasizing the power of wind and water.
The artist has rendered the sea with considerable attention to detail; the surface is not uniformly calm but rather characterized by dynamic swells and subtle shifts in color that suggest movement and depth. The dark blue-green hues of the water are contrasted against the lighter tones of the boat, enhancing its visibility and drawing the eye. A hazy shoreline is visible in the distance, partially obscured by mist or fog, which adds to the atmospheric quality of the scene.
Within the small boat, three figures are depicted, their postures suggesting focused activity. They appear to be actively engaged in reeling in a substantial fish, indicated by the taut line extending from the boat into the water. The figures clothing suggests a working-class background, and their expressions are difficult to discern but imply concentration and perhaps excitement.
The presence of other boats in the background, some with sails visible and others more distant, establishes a sense of context – this is not an isolated event but part of a larger maritime community or industry. The subdued lighting conditions, implied by the title and the overall tonal palette, contribute to a mood of quiet determination and resilience against the elements.
Subtly, the painting might be interpreted as a commentary on human interaction with nature – the reliance on natural resources for sustenance, and the inherent risks involved in such endeavors. The scale of the sail relative to the boat underscores humanity’s dependence on forces beyond its control. Furthermore, the shared activity within the small vessel could symbolize cooperation and mutual support in challenging circumstances.