The massive, dark hull of a ship in silhouette against an evening sky, a few gleams of light on the water, hold great interest for me on two different levels, both equally important.

On one level, a powerful, dramatic composition or design is easy using these elements. It could be made into an abstract painting with strong, dark shapes against brightness. The shapes could then be ships or girders, buildings, tree trunks or nothing - just an excitement of shape and color.

On another level, the painting of ideas always interests me. The very idea of ships and harbors is exciting. This emotional response must be a result of early reading of sea poetry and sea adventures - someone was always getting shanghaied and taken off to sea to some exotic place, ususally the Orient.

I have tried to incorporate both levels in this painting: the mysterious call of the sea and a strong emotional design.

- Nita Engle