“Tall Ship at Skeppsholmen Island, Stockholm,” 2025

James Brown

“Tall Ship at Skeppsholmen Island, Stockholm,” 2025

Pastel on wood panel

Size: 35.6 x 27.8 cm

When I took the photograph that inspired this pastel in 2025, the day was cold, drizzling, and rather bleak. Isabelle and I were out for our morning walk when we witnessed a group of brave souls strip down to their underwear and dive into the icy water—crazy, but undoubtedly exhilarating! 

Across the harbour, this tall ship—likely the “Af Chapman”—was moored at Skeppsholmen. With its striking white hull and intricate rigging, it exuded a sense of radiant grandeur that felt almost regal amidst the lively chaos of the swimmers nearby. 

I chose to work in pastel to capture the scene’s shimmering sparkle. While I took some liberties with vivid colours—departing from the more muted greys of the photograph—I felt that the lively contrasts and rich hues would better animate the scene and convey its energy and vibrancy.