For this comparison I have touched on the difference in effect between illustration and photography. I have started with Michael Frith, who illustrates portraits of celebrities and yachts – having been a sailor from an early age. When drawing yachts he uses clean lines to make accurate drawings, from close proximity to the boat to create an effect wherein you could imagine being onboard. Using vivid colours really catches the eye, and his application of watercolour loses the finer details of the painting, creating an especially glorified image of the world of sailing.

When I then look at Carlo Baroncini, who is a photographer who travels the world taking photos of regattas and other sailing events, there is a much different effect. Being photographs, his work is far more detailed and the colours a lot cooler. It is, of course, a much more realistic depiction of sailing and what is involved. However there is still an element of exaggeration in his work because he will want the most impressive photos, which come out mainly in high level racing, but it is a more accurate depiction of what sailing is like.

I find that these two pieces are more similar than just their subject matter, Frith’s work aims at a visually interesting, colourful depiction of life on the water and Baroncini is trying to find the best shots of boats on the water. They are both trying to advertise sailing, Frith just has the luxury of painting to adapt his images, however there comes the argument that Baroncini’s work is more true to the sport.

images taken from:

Yacht – a collection of Michael Frith’s watercolours of the classic fleet of yachts

https://plus.google.com/100597711727186880721