Benjamin Thomas

The Ferry Sleeper

2014

Artist Comments
I was on the Cape May Ferry. It was a hot, humid day and I was looking for shade. This young women gave in to the heat and was napping on the gentle ride of the waves. I was thinking I would like a nap too. But the image summed up the whole ferry crossing and I just had to get it on canvas. When I look at this canvas I am reminded of the smell of the heat and sea.

About the Artist
Benjamin Thomas has been painting since the late seventies, however for most of this time he was not exhibiting his work. About twelve years ago, Benjamin and his wife were at a gallery show for a friend and as they were leaving Ben’s wife, aka “The Muse,” told him to go back in. “Your work is as good as that--maybe even better,” she said. That night, Benjamin obeyed The Muse (lucky for us!). The impressionistic sweeps of sky and cloud in Benjamin’s paintings capture more than just an atmospheric quality, but also a heavenly interpretation of the landscape. There is a classical, mature style to the paintings, reminiscent of J.M.W. Turner. Benjamin is often inspired while bicycling, walking or motorcycling, taking in the scenery of Pittsburgh, PA. He takes photos of the scene and then works out the concept back in his studio. The large scale of the work matches the impression and mood that each scene conveys, and the light and shadow are carefully balanced to capture something mercurial and nostalgic. The work feels very measured and contemplated, but also full of passion, as if each piece is in pursuit of the joy of painting and the representation of natural beauty.

The Ferry Sleeper
Benjamin Thomas
Acrylic painting on stretched canvas
Finished black edges
Ready to hang
One-of-a-kind
Signed on front and back
2014
24 in. h x 32 in. w x 1.5 in. d
3 lbs. 5 oz.