The latest in a series of presentations by the Sidmouth Society of Artists was a slideshow by Exmouth based artist Ray Balkwill.

Entitled ‘The River’s Voice’, the theme was expressed as ‘a search for the spirit of the Exe estuary’.

UP THE CREEK

The vast majority of Ray’s professional output of paintings feature scenes along the Exe including Lympstone, Topsham and especially Camperdown Creek on the edge of Exmouth.

From the slides of his pictures, and there were sufficient to fill the two hours available, it was clear that Ray is a master of painting water, boats, wet sand, reflections, and all things maritime. The boatyard at Camperdown Creek held a special fascination for him with its somewhat chaotic structures and their shambolic contents.

WEATHER OR NOT

His painting of skies is exceptional too, capturing some breathtaking sunsets over the river; he is forever ‘chasing the light’ as he puts it and is always keen to capture the mood of his subject.

He prefers to paint plein air and perhaps that is why most of his paintings project peace and calm - it is after all difficult to paint outdoors in a storm!

EXE CETERA

For those whose interest leans towards abstract art there was also an interesting diversion from Ray’s normal style. In recent years he has developed a fresh approach, making assemblages by mounting bits and pieces scavenged from the riverbank and sands of the Exe onto a backboard.

Such items of flotsam and jetsam include bits of plank, seashells, rope, metal, and plastic oddments et al. A very different approach to the fine art of his paintings but an equal homage to the river.

Why not join SSA? Visit www.sidmouthsocietyofartists.com for more information