Railway Bridges at Castle Field – Original Painting

Railway Bridges at Castle Field – Original Painting

About the Image

I wish I could paint all of Castlefield without overwhelming the image. It’s one of those places where there’s so much to see. So many bridges, the canal, the rivers, locks, industrial architecture and reflections everywhere.

The atmosphere is tranquil and it exudes an air of history. Millions of pass through. Working on the boats, in the factories and on the trains. It was a hive of activity in historical times as much as it is today. Although the experiences of those who used it then and those who use it now, differ vastly.

We see the patterns created by elements of the bridges, railways, arches, bricks and even the patterns formed by rippling waters. The rhythmical flow of water created by wind or perhaps a passing boat. I think the former but then a boat had just passed by to the right. Heading to the lock. The bridges are dotted with greenery, as Mother Nature attempts to reclaim what was once hers.

There are hints of railway traffic but no trains to be seen. I wonder if the passengers realise how impressive the bridge they are travelling over is? When I’m on a train journey, I like to look out for familiar landmarks. But I often find they look so different from above and pass by so quickly below me. So that I rarely recognise them in time to fully appreciate what I’m seeing.