This outstanding new painting, larger in scale than many works from the very popular Silence series, captures an intimate moment between two soldiers resting high on a coastal headland.
Possessing a startling realism, this exquisitely painted artwork renders the finest details - leather boots, their eyelets and laces - in an astonishingly accomplished manner. Dynamic white and wispy clouds dominate the upper section of sky, indicating a sea breeze, which reinforces the anchored stillness of the young men bathed in bright midday sunshine.
Watson was inspired by observing the making of a film set in Australia during World War I titled 'Always Afternoon’, and this series of paintings has become one of the artist's most sought after.
Featuring the spectacular and pristine coastline of Noosa National Park in Queensland, Australia, which provides an ideal natural setting for the shirtless young men, who are in fact actors dressed as soldiers.
Sir James Wolfensohn is a great admirer and collector of the series, and one of his favourite paintings featuring a row of actors on headland hung opposite his desk in his office at the World Bank in Washington.
Collector Testimonials
"I have been a proud collector of Ross' paintings for many years. His art is astounding in its beauty, emotion, and reverence for our humanity and the world we live in. His attention to the smallest details, and use of light, dark and colour, rivals art's greatest masters." James J. O'Donnell, Patron, art collector, NYC
"We are loving our new acquisition and we know that 'Nathan, view to Florence' will bring us endless years of joy. Thanks for sharing your talent. We love your work so keep it up!" Paul Zahra and Duncan Peerman, Sydney
"As avid art collectors we are very proud to have Ross' stunningly handsome work in our collection. His art brings us great joy and we love to share his work with our friends and visitors. We were absolutely thrilled to recently add 'Two Soldiers' to our collection." Christopher Cosier & Chris Webber, Sydney
"I purchased the original painting 10 years ago at your gallery during Mardi Gras and it has given me enormous pleasure ever since. I remember standing in the gallery for a couple of hours wondering if I should buy it. I have never regretted that decision." Jon Anderson and Lance Johnson, Palm Springs
"Your art hanging around our home provides us with such pleasure, and we can’t wait for A-Bay to join the Ross Watson family." Haydon Elliot and Greg Moses, Melbourne
