Winter light on Bar Beach, Helford River

Painted on Arches Huile paper, with a deep yellow ground, protected with a clear wax coat, mounted on board and framed with a St Ives moat frame in white wood which measures 8cm. 

Bar Beach is one of Helford’s hidden secrets. It is one of the best places to catch a dramatic winter sunset, as its location looks west up river so the light fades dramatically over it. This painting was inspired by the haunting light one winter afternoon. Very few boats were left on their moorings, most having come out to overwinter on land. The cool light of the winter sun turns the scene almost sepia toned. The water shimmers like mercury and is now colder than the air temperature. Mid tide, the water line catches the light and the wet sand and shingle glisten in the shadows. It is a beautiful time of year on the Helford, one of peace and calm.