“Trafalgar Square,” 2026

James Brown

“Trafalgar Square,” 2026

Pastel and oil on wood panel

Size: 35.5 x 28.2 cm

While waiting in line to enter the National Gallery in London, I snapped a photo from the Gallery’s portico, looking out over the lively Trafalgar Square. Initially, I didn’t see much pictorial magic in the shot that would inspire a painting, but I was mistaken. 

Upon examining the photo more closely, I became excited by the layered features—elements that obscure or partially obscure each other. This was especially true of the hazy area created by the trees in the central part of the scene, which added a sense of depth and mystery to the composition.