Edward Seago, R.W.S., R.B.A. (1910-1974)

Seago could seldom resist to paint farm buildings in his landscape compositions: 'I love to see the glint of sunlight on farm roofs, and others overcast by shadow, their angular shapes extending from a group of trees with a stretch of open country beyond'. Here the artist combines his love of the Norfolk countryside, with his love of sailing, expertly conveyed in this summer harbour scene. Seago is responding to the countryside that would become his home, having decided to settle in the quiet village of Ludham in 1945. Seago's typically low lying horizon shows off the summer weather at its best, the clouds of the sky, mirrored in the billowing sails of the boats below. Full of colour and movement, the dappled water hints at a light breeze,as the rushes on the banks of the Broads respond accordingly. An undeniable sense of calm and of space seems to be intended here, as the viewer's gaze is drawn through the sail boats, across to the land beyond.