Happy Days

Artist Alexander Dunbar Cruickshank (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1924 - 1961)

Datec. 1952

Mediumoil on board

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 50.5 cm, Width: 68.5 cm
Frame: Height: 63.2 cm, Width: 81.3 c

AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by Mr William Cruickshank.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG008178

Keywords

About MeThis view of the boating pond in Duthie Park is a charming evocation of a sunny summer day in Aberdeen. Though painted in about 1952, it depicts a scene still recognisable today. Hordes of children have descended on the park. The lucky ones are in the paddle boats. Working furiously, they paddle them around the pond, whilst a pal at the front of the boat shouts instructions or tries to grab an unsuspecting moorhen. The less fortunate ones have arrived a little late and must queue patiently while the boatman shouts the numbers to call in the boats. Around the pond nannies and mothers push prams - one man walks his dog. The figures to the rear of the scene seem stick-like and simplified, much like the figures L S Lowry was painting at roughly the same time.
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"Happy Days" indeed as children enjoy the paddle boats on the lake at Duthie Park. When number one is called in by the attendant the ducks will be much relieved!