The artwork titled “Fishing boats on the Beach at Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France, exemplifies the Post-Impressionism art movement. Crafted using ink on paper, this sketch and study measures 39.5 x 53.5 cm and is held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a serene seaside scene where several fishing boats rest upon the beach. Their detailed outlines and shading highlight Van Gogh’s precise and expressive line work. The intricate portrayal of the boats, with masts extending upwards and the hulls adorned with inscriptions such as “blanc,” “rouge,” and “AMITIE,” captures the tranquil essence of the coastal locale. Gentle curves and intricate detailing in the sand and shoreline add depth and texture to the composition. The minimalistic background, with a few birds in flight and a faint horizon, directs attention to the foreground boats, showcasing Van Gogh’s ability to create vivid imagery with simple, yet effective, strokes.
