Waterloo Sunset
As I write, I count 21 people in this scene, there may be more. People heading to and from Waterloo station Most seem to be lost or trying to plan a route. A few are resolute on their journey, but their postures hint at drudgery these are necessary trips. They may be for pleasure, but there’s no hint of that at present.
I planned on painting Waterloo station for a while, but needed the right image. The title Waterloo sunset with a last minute decision. But the more I look at it, the more it feels right, with that yellow station and Roman arch, hinting at a setting sun. I’m reminded of the song Waterloo sunset by The Kinks and wonder if there was a subconscious influence on my painting. Or was it serendipity? Whatever the sequence, this Waterloo sunset is fine by me.
A Victorian edifice, with a very 21st century influence. The dress of the people, the street furniture all date it firmly in the present day. Another time capsule of contemporary London.
Some people blend in with the surroundings, like the woman in pink by the door or the other behind the railings above the bollards. More figures meet and greet each other on the steps. Another crowd of three walk behind the lamppost that splits the scene. Supporting a lone bicycle, awaiting its owner. To the right two men, with their backs to us appear to be focused on something. Perhaps a map or a phone. But wait, there’s a third man behind the belisha beacon of the zebra crossing and yet another on the pavement beyond, by the head of the man in the blue shirt. The foreground figures are easier to spot. The man in the blue striped shirt looks to the left, hand to mouth in a thoughtful posture. A woman behind looks at him, are they together? Possibly. The only bright colour in a sea of muted tones is her little pink rucksack lifts to the area.
Talking of bright colours, the grit box is centre stage, a very necessary feature in winter but redundant at this time of year. It’s obviously warm as nearly everyone is in shirts sleeves. Besides the bin, a man in black with white trainers looks down the street. I wonder if there’s something behind the wall with the street sign? What could it be?
Finally four figures and walking up the hill. Three in everyday clothes. The lady in gold is obviously dressed to impress and is off to meet someone. Time to catch the train and head onward. Where to? I’ll let you decide as we gaze on this Waterloo sunset and wonder will it be paradise?
Waterloo Sunset featured in the 163rd Annual Exhibition of the Society of Women Artists at the Mall Galleries in London.
