Medium: gouache watercolor on illustration board
Size: 26" x 20"
Year: 1999
Southfield Birmingham by Markham is a striking gouache watercolor on illustration board, created in 1999. Measuring 26" x 20", this piece captures the reflective grandeur of a modern glass-covered building, juxtaposed against lush greenery and an expansive sky. The artist employs a delicate balance of realism and impressionistic techniques, using soft, blended colors to convey light and atmosphere while allowing the brushwork to retain a sense of movement.
The mirrored facade of the building stands as the focal point, reflecting the surrounding environment in a shimmering grid of golds, purples, and soft grays. The way light interacts with the structure suggests a time of day when the sun’s position creates a dynamic play of illumination and shadow. The trees in the foreground, rendered in rich greens with expressive strokes, contrast against the rigid geometry of the architecture, adding an organic element to the scene.
Markham’s technique in this work highlights his ability to merge precision with painterly expression. The atmospheric depth achieved through the layered washes of gouache adds a sense of realism, making the viewer feel as though they are standing before this monumental structure on a calm day. The warm tones of the building’s reflection, contrasted with the cool sky, create a visual harmony that makes the composition both inviting and intriguing.
This piece is in like-new condition, housed in hinge matting within an acetate wrap, ensuring its preservation. An artist’s certificate of authenticity is included. Southfield Birmingham is a compelling addition for collectors who appreciate urban landscapes, architectural studies, and the interplay of nature and the built environment.
