Departure of Fishing Boats 1900

Maxime Maufra created "Departure of Fishing Boats" using oil paint, likely en plein air, capturing a fleeting moment in time. Maufra’s technique, with its visible brushstrokes, emphasizes the materiality of the paint itself. The way the paint is applied – thick and textured – mimics the rough surfaces of the sea, the sky, and the boats. This isn't just about representation; it's about using the very substance of the medium to evoke the scene. Consider the working conditions for fishermen who embarked on these boats, and the artist in similar conditions on the shore, to capture such a scene. There's a shared dedication to craft here, both on the part of the painter and his subject. Maufra’s impressionistic style blurs the lines between the artist's labor and the labor of those at sea. He is depicting their livelihood while actively participating in his own, using materials and techniques passed down through artistic traditions, yet applied in a fresh, modern way. Recognizing this connection enriches our understanding and appreciation of both worlds.