The artwork, titled “Waterville,” was created by Alex Colville in 2003. It is a part of the Contemporary Realism art movement and falls under the genre of genre painting. In “Waterville,” Colville captures a serene yet mysterious scene characterized by precise realism and attention to detail, hallmarks of the movement he is associated with.
The artwork depicts a tranquil, rural landscape. On the left, a man in a suit and hat stands beside his black car, with the door ajar, suggesting recent arrival or imminent departure. The man’s expression and demeanor are calm and contemplative. To the right, a dog is seen drinking from a puddle, creating a sense of equilibrium and peace. In the background, two airplanes are visible on a grassy airfield, introducing a subtle juxtaposition of modernity against the timeless rural setting. The muted color palette and meticulous composition evoke a sense of stillness and introspection, reflecting Colville’s mastery of capturing the quiet moments of everyday life with profound clarity and thoughtfulness.