Oceans of Apology
£375.00
Original Humpback Whale Painting
A close encounter with a whale’s gaze – exploring connection, loss, and a quiet sense of responsibility.
See full description for details and story
Original Acrylic Painting – Humpback Whale Eye
(Specifications below)“I listened to the sounds of your world while my brushes worked, wrapping myself in a blanket of your language and the music of waves. With my soul I attempted to dive into your world, to draw close to your spirit, to express an apology from my species to yours.”
This piece began with the eye of a humpback whale – a point of connection that feels both distant and deeply familiar. Their gaze holds a quiet intelligence and presence that’s difficult to fully comprehend, yet impossible to dismiss.
The eye in this painting is inspired by a powerful photograph by wildlife photographer Rachel Moore. The whale, known as Sweet Girl, was later fatally struck by a ship shortly after the image was captured. That knowledge shifted the direction of this work completely.
What began as a study of beauty became something more layered – both a reflection of connection and an expression of grief and responsibility.
The composition evolved to hold that. Human hands reach towards the whale in a gesture that sits somewhere between protection and apology. Beneath, a mother and calf are depicted in black and gold – a quieter, symbolic presence that speaks to continuity, vulnerability, and care. The use of gold introduces a sense of warmth and healing, but without removing the weight of what sits behind it.
This piece exists within ocean advocacy, but not as a distant statement. It’s rooted in the recognition that our relationship with marine life carries consequence – and that awareness can’t easily be undone once felt.
A donation will be made to a relevant conservation effort when the painting finds its home, with details shared with the collector.
Artwork specifications:
Original acrylic on stretched canvas
42 x 59.5 cm (3.7 cm deep)Delivery:
Original works are carefully prepared and dispatched within 3–7 working days. This includes professional documentation of the artwork and secure packaging.Delivery typically follows within 1–3 working days. If there are any unexpected delays (for example around holidays), I’ll keep you updated throughout.
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UK mainland delivery included, all other destinations to be quoted as an additional fee.
