Between Greenock and Gourock is Lyle Hill. Its known for the Free French monument and the commanding views of the surrounding area. Any time of year the view is amazing and this one was captured as summer was waning. The sunset reflection in the Clyde, silhouetted hills and the just visible town of Gourock added a special element to the scene. Look closely and you can make out sea birds floating near the boats, the docked ferry and the different hues of lights turning on in the buildings.
My local framers recommended I try a large landscape canvas so challenge accepted and accomplished. Thanks for the push as it’s quite intimidating looking at a 2×3 foot blank rectangle waiting to be painted on. Get close enough and the scene surrounds you as standing back will mean missing the real details (hence the zooms). I used my trusty rectangular palette knife and was joined with a small flat head screwdriver for the boats and windows.
While on a train trip back up to Scotland from London I had a nice chat with the person sitting next to me. We both shared a love of arts whether it was music or painting and she told me the reasons for coming back up to visit. Although sad, we talked about our recollection of the area and so this is a message to you. As your reasons for coming back to this part of the world diminish, let me share with you one of my memories that I hope aligns to one of yours. Don’t forget this place…

Title: Summer’s End At Lyle Hill
Created: January 2020
Dimensions: 60 x 90 cm
Medium: Oils on canvas
Original: Available on request
Print: Available HERE