crowded waters (the crabshell boat)

2.75 x 4.25 gouache on illustration board.

I grew up around boats.  We didn't always necessarily live close to the water, but, as a family of sailing enthusiasts will, we always managed to find our way to it more weekends than not.  I remember as a kid being completely fascinated with the harbor, maybe even more than the open bay/sea-- hanging my head over the boat, or over the dock, and trying to will the water a little clearer to see what's on the bottom and the pilings.  The interesting things underwater are so much closer in harbors, I suppose.  There was also always for me the absolute horror of falling into the water, so close to the unseen greeblies hanging on the boat & docks, waiting to snag or slime you.. eeeeeuch....    ...and even just the proximity of other boats was tantalizing, like houses that are too close together-- always a chance to glimpse someone else's life.  Or, at least, someone else's weekend.

Anyway.  I don't think these weekenders in the crabshell boat are faring very well-- all these nasty nouveau riches clogging up the harbor and all.  Steady, boys....

This piece is tiny... click for details:

Comments

[Elizabeth]

What wonderful art! I totally love it all!