#43610 Charles Tunnicliffe

The canvas presents a dynamic scene depicting several waterfowl in flight over water. The artist has employed a thick impasto technique, creating a textured surface that emphasizes the movement and energy within the composition. A palette dominated by cool tones – blues, grays, and whites – evokes a sense of chill or perhaps even a wintry atmosphere.
Here we see three birds prominently featured; each is captured in mid-flight, their wings outstretched and feathers ruffled as if caught in a gust of wind or rising from the waters surface. The bird on the left displays its plumage with an almost defiant posture, its crest raised and body angled away from the viewer. This gesture suggests a moment of agitation or perhaps a challenge to an unseen force. The other two birds are positioned further forward, their bodies tilted as if propelled by an invisible current.
The water itself is rendered with swirling brushstrokes that mimic the chaotic nature of waves or ripples. These strokes contribute to the overall feeling of motion and instability. Light reflects off the surface in short, broken patches, adding depth and visual interest. The background appears indistinct, further concentrating attention on the birds and their interaction with the immediate environment.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of struggle and resilience. The birds’ determined flight against what seems to be an opposing force suggests themes of perseverance and adaptation. The limited color range reinforces this mood, hinting at a harsh or challenging setting. While seemingly straightforward in its depiction of wildlife, the work invites contemplation on broader concepts of survival and the power of nature.