Rainstorm on the Fife Coast/Paps of Fife

The famous golfing centre of Gullane in East Lothian is also home to a long sandy beach with craggy rocks and stunning views of the Kingdom of Fife. The weather changes very rapidly on this coastline; a gray day was followed by a soft sunset which cast the Paps of Fife into silhouette. The real challenge that prompted this painting was the way in which the light penetrated the downpour from behind. The contrast of very dark clouds above these cascading shapes of dancing light was fascinating. This studio painting was developed from multiple plein air charcoal and pastel sketches.