Cows before Manor House and Church n.d.

Elizabeth Murray created this watercolor painting, "Cows before Manor House and Church," in the 19th century. Watercolor is a wonderfully direct medium. It is characterized by a sense of immediacy, as the artist works quickly to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. Here, Murray uses thin washes of pigment, applied with a brush, to create a sense of depth and atmosphere in the scene. Notice how the translucent quality of watercolor allows the white paper to shine through, creating a luminous effect. The landscape takes shape through the layering of colors, from the pale greens of the grass to the deeper blues and grays of the sky. Murray's skillful handling of watercolor imbues the scene with a sense of tranquility and beauty. She finds artistry in the everyday, showing us the dignity and artistry of the natural world and the rural English landscape. This work is a reminder to cherish and respect our environment.