Few sights around the world are as iconic and meaningful as the London skyline reflecting in the rippling river Thames. Whether radiant and joyful in the summer sun or drenched in perpetual Dickensian mist, the waters provide an artery for the city, simultaneously unifying and dividing in two. The great river has inspired many great artists such as Monet and Turner, whose paintings are almost as famous as the landmark itself. Whether strolling along the South Bank or crossing the bridge at Westminster, the view is always stirring and provides today’s contemporary artists with a great deal of sights with which to work.

Some artists, such as LondonArt favourite Jo Lewis, use the atmosphere of the river to create wonderfully abstract imaginings of the scene. Her work glows with a subtle radiance which captures the feeling of the light interacting with the water drops and falling leaves as seen from her Greenwich viewpoint. Compare this to Will Smith’s beautifully captured impressionistic handling of the landmark buildings and you can see how many interpretations of the river there can be. Smith’s work shows off the city wonderfully and takes the viewer back to summer evenings and trips on the London Eye. The enthralling pictures of Sophy Bristol show her ability to paint the range of effects that are created when light reflects on water. Next to the river people walk on a puddle-drenched bank side after a downpour. The moon competes with the neon electric lights for dominance on a brilliant summer’s evening. The river Thames snakes through the city, glistening and alive.

A unique vision is created by Sarah Beaumont whose distorted, jilted perspective creates a feeling of unease but keeps the viewer interested for a great deal of time. The river is the starting point for her artistic creativity and innovation, whereas for a more traditional painting a buyer should view Zoran Nicic’s studied efforts. His work demonstrates his technical mastery and shows just how vital the modern city skyline is when viewed from its watery heart. What all of these artists have in common is their love of London and in particular the river which flows through its heart. They may produce vastly different interpretation of it, but their admiration always shines through.

Alan Perkins