Green Steam Drifter

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A charming naïve style contemporary painting depicting a green fishing trawler navigating softly rolling seas, executed in oil onto panel by British artist Matt Rix.

The vessel cuts a steady horizontal line across the composition, its upright mast, taut rigging and gently billowing sail lending a quiet sense of purpose and movement. A plume of pale smoke rises from the red funnel, drifting into a softly clouded sky.

Rendered in a characteristically naïve style, the painting embraces flattened perspective and simplified geometry. The boat is presented in clean profile, its forms reduced to essential shapes and crisp outlines. Proportion and detail are intentionally pared back, allowing the bold silhouette and balanced composition to take precedence over realism.

The palette is both restrained and striking. The hull’s rich green contrasts beautifully against the cool, powdery blues of the sea. The funnel’s deep red, accented with cream and black bands, introduces warmth and graphic punch, echoed in the earthy brown sail and cabin details. The sky is painted in muted, chalky neutrals, enhancing the maritime calm.

Brushwork is smooth and controlled, with flat areas of even colour defining the vessel. The water is animated by rhythmic, horizontal strokes and white crests that suggest gentle motion without disrupting the painting’s serene tone.

This oil on board is presented in a wood frame with an inner gilt border. Both painting and frame are in excellent condition.

British artist Matt Rix spent his childhood in South Africa and now lives with his family on a small holding in rural North Wales. His paintings are uncomplicated, modernist representations influenced by primitive and naïve folk art from times past. Many of the subjects Rix paints are inspired by the animals he sees from day to day. Rix uses recycled materials including discarded paints, boards, frames and backing paper. Much of his work is therefore produced using waste materials resulting in sustainable paintings that evoke a time-worn, nostalgic essence.

To view the other paintings in this collection, click here.

Size: 29 x 37.5 cm (including frame)

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