Muchalls by the Sea

Artist Sandy Fraser (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1940 - 2020)

Datec. 1969

Mediumoil on canvas

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 110 cm, Width: 125 cm
Frame: Height: 115 cm, Width: 130.3 cm

AcquisitionThe Scottish Arts Council Bequest, 1997.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG013576

Keywords

About MeAlexander Fraser studied at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen (1958-62) where he subsequently taught, latterly becoming Head of Drawing and Painting for ten years until 1997. His work has been described by art critics as "a metaphor for Scottish painting in the 1990s."

His paintings depict atmospheric, beguiling and intriguing compositions of people, architecture, landscapes, animals and birds, often inspired by his native Aberdeenshire.

Muchalls by the Sea portrays the village in Kincardineshire where Fraser has lived for many years. Using a birds-eye viewpoint the artist emphasises the geometry of the buildings - their volumes evolve through a sequence of tightly overlapping lines and planes. There are surreal elements in this composition - and its deliberate naivety recalls the work of St Ives artist Alfred Wallis. Two boats are at sea yet one seems to have overturned. Above flocks of gulls bustle over the choppy waters.