The artwork, titled “Swimmer,” was created by Alex Colville in 1962. It is a piece representative of Contemporary Realism and falls within the genre of genre painting.
In the artwork, a solitary swimmer is depicted amidst a vast, undulating expanse of ocean waves. The swimmer, with a noticeable swim cap, is caught in mid-stroke, suggesting motion and exertion. The sea occupies the majority of the canvas, characterized by meticulous and almost rhythmic wave patterns, capturing the serene yet powerful nature of the water. The horizon stretches far and wide, under a moody, overcast sky that evokes a contemplative atmosphere. The scene is marked by its simplicity and precision, hallmarks of Colville’s style, lending it both a sense of tranquility and introspection.
