Marissa Weatherhead

Marissa Weatherhead's "The Race" presents a vibrant coastal still life that juxtaposes the bounty of the sea with the freedom of sailing. This acrylic on canvas (50 x 60 cm framed) bursts with colour and energy, featuring a striking red lobster as the centrepiece amongst an array of fish, shellfish, and citrus fruits arranged on a decorative blue and white patterned plate. Beyond this sumptuous display, three white sailboats glide across a cerulean sea beneath a golden sun, while potted plants with distinctive patterned leaves frame the composition. Weatherhead employs bold, graphic brushwork and a masterful use of contrasting colours to create a work that feels both contemporary and reminiscent of traditional still life painting.

Coastal Inspiration and Spatial Impact
When displayed on a wall, "The Race" immediately transports viewers to the seaside, evoking the sensory pleasures of coastal living—the salt air, fresh seafood, and leisure of sailing. The painting's moderate scale creates an intimate viewing experience while still commanding attention through its bold colour palette and compelling composition. Weatherhead skilfully balances the structured elements of the still life against the freedom suggested by the sailing scene, creating a dialogue between bounty and adventure, domesticity and exploration. This duality gives the work a depth that continues to reveal itself over time, making it an engaging focal point in any room where daily life unfolds.