Humpback Whale at Sea

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A bold and theatrical contemporary naïve style painting that depicts a monumental humpback whale gliding beneath the legendary ocean liner Lusitania, executed in oil onto panel by British artist Matt Rix.

The composition is split horizontally between sea and sky: above the waterline, the iconic steamship moves calmly across a pale grey horizon, its three red funnels releasing soft plumes of smoke; below, a vast humpback whale dominates the scene, its immense body rendered in simplified, graphic form.

Executed in a distinctive naïve style, the work embraces flattened perspective and exaggerated scale. The whale appears far larger than the ship, heightening the sense of quiet tension and lending the painting a folkloric, almost mythic quality. Detail is intentionally minimal: forms are cleanly outlined, shadows reduced, and spatial depth suggested through gentle tonal shifts rather than realism.

The palette is restrained and harmonious. Cool blues define the water, transitioning subtly from lighter tones near the surface to deeper shades around the whale’s body. The whale itself is painted in rich navy with a creamy white underbelly marked by rhythmic linear grooves. Above, the ship’s black hull, red funnels and white superstructure introduce strong contrast against the soft grey sky.

Brushwork is smooth and controlled, with flat, even applications of paint that emphasise shape and silhouette. The water shows delicate horizontal strokes, adding quiet movement while preserving the composition’s calm clarity.

This oil on board is presented in an ornate gilt frame, its elaborate carving and warm gold tones intentionally echoing the grandeur of the Lusitania. 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: 45.5 x 54 cm (including frame)

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