As the Tall Ships sail once more into Waterford Harbour, Time and Tide strives to capture the essence of Waterford’s maritime history: the tang of salt that drifts on the Waterford air, the sun and shade as it is reflected on the Irish sea around Waterford’s coast and the noisy chop and swirl of waves that act as percussion in Waterford’s heartbeat forever.

Ken, a local artist who has previously impressed with his 2008 show at the Waterford Treasures, Eist le Fuaim na Mara, draws his inspiration from the rugged aesthetic of the Waterford coastline, its fragility and its strength.  Waterford has always maintained strong links with the sea, and much of the culture of the county is shaped by seafaring traditions and briny imagery. Time and Tide explores the earthy respect Waterford holds for the sea and shore around the county, its strength and its beauties.

Ken works in fresh, naturalistic colours with a precise eye that captures the familiar variegations of Waterford’s cliffs and sea-grasses, the casual lilt of light upon a wave or painted bow of a boat.  Featuring scenes from picturesque Tramore, the harbour at Dunmore East, and the sea-hewn cliffs and bays at Garrarus and Kilfarrasy, Ken’s oil paintings capture the raw power of the Irish Sea and the part it plays in the lifestyles of Waterford people.

Artist Ken Smith showcases Time and Tide, a selection of his latest works at the Index Gallery in Waterford’s Central Library, Lady Lane from Wednesday June 29th – Friday July 15th.