John Bellany: Woman with a Fish

Drawing in pencil and watercolour on paper.

This portrait by John Bellany, rendered in pencil and watercolor, encapsulates the nuanced and expressive style that characterizes much of his work. Created with a fluidity that watercolor affords, the piece conveys a sense of raw immediacy, which is a hallmark of Bellany's oeuvre.

The subject's face is depicted with an assortment of vibrant colors, not traditionally used for skin tones, reflecting Bellany's distinctive approach to portraiture that often veers towards the expressionistic. The exaggerated features, particularly the eyes, are prominent and haunting, echoing the emotional intensity found in much of Bellany's art. This intensity suggests a soul deep in contemplation or caught in a moment of existential questioning, themes prevalent throughout Bellany’s career.

The nautical elements, perhaps a nod to his heritage and the influence of the sea on his work, are integrated with a casual, almost dreamlike ease. The inclusion of the fish, a recurring motif in Bellany’s paintings, might symbolize the subconscious or a deeper truth lying beneath the surface.

As we mark more than ten years since Bellany’s passing, this portrait is not just a testament to his legacy but also to his personal journey and transformation. From the turmoil of human existence depicted in his earlier works to the more hopeful and vibrant energy following his liver transplant, Bellany’s art narrates the story of redemption and the resilience of the human spirit.

The artwork, while seemingly informal in its composition, carries a weighty presence. The loose yet intentional brushstrokes, combined with the earthy and aquatic color palette, draw the viewer into a world where the boundary between the earthly and the spiritual seems to blur.

Bellany’s work remains significant in Scottish art history, and this portrait is a beautiful example of his ability to convey complex human emotions and conditions through a canvas rich with personal and universal symbolism.

Set in an original handmade frame. As standard in our Gallery, this is framed with special anti-reflective and virtually invisible glass (up to 70% UV protection).

A Certificate of Authentication will be provided after your purchase!