Bateaux de pêche 1963

Benito Quinquela Martin made “Bateaux de pêche” with oil paint, and just look at the way he’s built up the surface! The texture is so thick, it’s almost sculptural. It’s like he’s not just painting the boats, but building them right there on the canvas. Notice how the colors aren't blended smoothly; instead, he's put down these bold strokes of red, green, blue, and black, which vibrate against each other. Look closely at the reflections in the water: see how Martin uses short, choppy strokes? Each dab of paint captures a glimmer of light, making the water feel alive and in constant motion. Those marks are like visual shorthand for the way light dances on the surface. This approach reminds me of Van Gogh, with his intense, expressive brushwork and love of color. But Martin brings his own distinct vision, celebrating the energy and vibrancy of the harbor. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art is always a conversation.