Black Sails in the Sunset by Paul (Dixie) Dean

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Comments

Such an interesting scene Dixie, and you have brought great tonal interest here with your black sails and buildings. Really striking and the background information you give always adds much to the painting.

Interesting information as never seen a black sail before. Nicely done.

I like this Paul - I’m beginning to recognise your style now

Very interesting and very good

I really like this one, everything just works so well !!

Interesting information behind your painting Paul.

A striking picture, Paul with the sky complimenting the scene perfectly!

Thank you all for your kind comments, most appreciated particularly as I wasn’t sure of this painting myself. I have seen a wherry sailing along they look amazing and a bit ominous in the twilight, I was lucky enough to go aboard one that was still used for cargo in the 1970s .

This is really good Paul.

Excellent painting Paul.

Nice one Paul and thanks for the information too.

Thank you Stephen, Denise and Andrew .

Really interesting and a dramatic painting!

Thank you Russell Lynda and John for the kind comments.

The black sails are a striking focal point Paul……like it.

Thanks Fiona , the look fantastic in reality gliding along the when you can’t see the boat for the reeds .

Very interesting, both the painting and the information.

Thanks Sandra , obviously a bit different to your scenery in New Zealand.

Hang on Studio Wall
03/04/2026
1 like
164 views

Watercolour painting of a Norfolk Wherry sailing on the Broads in the early evening. Traditionally they have black sails as originally they’re were treated with fish oil and tar to preserve the canvas . Still a few afloat but no longer cargo vessels use a holiday cruises . The masts were short and strong made to be lowered by the two man crew so very simple rigging, background of a derelict water pump that was also wind powered , yet more sails on the skyline.

About the Artist
Paul (Dixie) Dean

I have sketched most of my life on and off I became interested in watercolour following a spinal injury whilst in hospital but did not follow it up. My eldest daughter bought me a beautiful wooden box set of half pans about twenty five years ago I dabbled on and off until retirement twelve years…

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