Original Oil by Geoffrey C. Smith, 2019
24"W x 36"H
 
This painting features a brown pelican standing on a sunlit piling, gazing off toward the horizon. The background sky is filled with soft blues, pinks, and whites, giving the impression of scattered clouds in coastal morning light. Thick palette knife strokes create depth and texture throughout the feathers, which include tones of cream, gold, violet, and slate blue. The piling beneath the bird is built up with layered green and ochre tones, echoing the look of weathered wood and moss. The water below is a calm turquoise, anchoring the composition. The piece focuses on form, posture, and surface, with one of Smith's favorite muses.