Seascape, 1952

Oil on canvas

In 1954, the Manchester Guardian wrote ‘Not a pebble on the beach, nor a cloud in the sky. But a storm breaks over Seascape.’ Purchased by Salford Museum & Art Gallery for 54 guineas, the picture had a hostile reception from some councillors and members of the public for its apparent lack of subject matter. Lowry declared ‘I never expected the picture to be very popular. It took me 18 months to paint and I think it is one of the best things I’ve done.’