a september gale, georgian bay 1921 Arthur Lismer

The composition presents a dramatic coastal scene dominated by turbulent water and a brooding sky. Here we observe a rugged shoreline punctuated by rocky outcrops and a solitary tree struggling against the elements. The artist has employed a palette of earthy tones – ochres, browns, greens, and grays – to convey a sense of somberness and resilience.
The most immediate impression is one of forceful movement. The water’s surface is rendered with agitated brushstrokes, creating a palpable feeling of churning waves and relentless wind. These lines extend upwards into the sky, where heavy clouds are depicted in similarly dynamic strokes, suggesting an impending storm or the aftermath of a gale. The tree, positioned prominently on the left side of the canvas, appears to be bent and contorted by the force of the wind; its branches reach out as if grasping for stability.
The artist’s use of perspective is somewhat flattened, which contributes to the feeling of immediacy and emphasizes the overwhelming power of nature. The distant landmass, visible across the water, is reduced to a simplified form, further highlighting the foregrounds intensity. There is an absence of human presence; the scene feels untouched by civilization, emphasizing the raw, untamed character of the landscape.
Subtly, the painting suggests themes of endurance and struggle. The tree’s tenacity in the face of adversity can be interpreted as a metaphor for resilience – a quiet defiance against overwhelming forces. The color choices reinforce this mood; the muted tones evoke a sense of melancholy but also suggest an underlying strength. The scene is not merely descriptive; it conveys a feeling, a visceral experience of natures power and its impact on those who witness it. It speaks to a relationship between humanity and the environment – one defined by respect for, and perhaps even awe of, natural forces.