Autumn Foothills

An atmospheric modernist landscape that presents a luminous autumn scene, executed in oil onto canvas and dated 1972.

A broad sweep of golden aspens stretches across the foreground, punctuated by soft sage greens and warm earthen tones. Low rocky forms and russet soil anchor the composition at the front, leading the eye gently toward layered foothills and distant mountains rendered in cool blues, greys, and muted slate hues. The result is a tranquil, balanced view that feels both expansive and intimate.

Modernist in its ethos, the painting emphasises simplified shapes, clear colour relationships, and an expressive rather than literal interpretation of nature. The landscape is structured in horizontal bands, giving the composition a calm, grounded rhythm, while loosely defined trees introduce vertical movement and visual interest.

The palette is distinctly autumnal yet restrained – mustard yellow, brown, pale olive, and soft rust contrast beautifully with the atmospheric blues of the mountains and sky. These tonal shifts create depth while maintaining an overall harmony that is soothing and timeless.

Brushwork is confident and tactile, with broad, painterly strokes and visible layering throughout. The foliage is built up with dabs and patches of colour, allowing the canvas texture to remain subtly present, while the mountains are handled with smoother, blended strokes that recede quietly into the background. Altogether, the painting carries a sense of ease and warmth, making it a classic and inviting example of mid-century landscape painting.

This oil on canvas is is housed in a complementary wood frame with an inner white border. The painting is in excellent vintage condition, and the frame has some marks to its inner section that is consistent with age. 

Size: 47 x 72 cm (including frame)