In the 1970s one could note a more paused approach in Josep Puigdengolas’ painting. With the passing of time, the work of this Catalan artist became calmer when compared with his previous practice, dominated by the influence of Joaquím Mir (1873-1940). Furthermore, this was the time when his career began to really take off, managing to finally exhibit at the coveted Sala Parés, where he exhibited every two years after 1970. It is therefore highly probable that works like this one were exhibited there in 1974.

Puigdengolas’ gaze was restrained and naturalist and yet, at the same time, his brushstroke was quick and energetic, trying to capture the surrounding atmosphere as best he could. His style of painting is also reminiscent of post-Impressionism in the way he builds the rocky cliff through the use of brushwork in different directions and capturing the impression of the bathers on the sand with a few carefully chosen touches.

This is a highly atmospheric painting in which the silvery light bathing the coast of Calella, in Barcelona, elicits contemplation and serenity.