There’s something compelling about water in motion—especially when paired with dogs known for strength, focus, and perseverance. Against the Current began as a simple idea: Labradors swimming through a river that doesn’t make things easy for them.

This piece was painted in watercolor, a medium that naturally mirrors the unpredictability of water itself. The flowing pigments, soft edges, and layered blues allowed the river to feel alive—rushing, pulling, resisting—while the Labradors push forward with steady determination.

Painting Motion with Watercolor

Watercolor is uniquely suited for scenes like this because it refuses to be fully controlled. Just like a river, it moves where it wants to move. Some areas bloom unexpectedly, others settle quietly. Instead of fighting that behavior, I leaned into it—letting the paint help tell the story.

The Labradors act as anchors within the chaos. Their forms are more defined, intentionally grounded, giving the viewer a sense of direction and resolve amid the swirling current.

Strength, Perseverance, and Quiet Resolve

While this painting is very much about motion, it’s also about endurance. Labradors are often associated with loyalty, work, and steady courage. In Against the Current, they aren’t dramatic heroes—they’re focused, committed, and moving forward because that’s what needs to be done.

That quiet resolve is what I wanted the piece to carry emotionally.

Watch the Painting Come Together

A sped-up video of the painting process is available on YouTube Shorts, showing the full watercolor journey—from blank paper to rushing water—in seconds. These process videos reveal how layers build, how decisions shift mid-painting, and how the final image emerges organically.

🎥 Watch the speed-painting here

Available as a Fine Art Print

Against the Current is available as an open edition fine art print, reproduced from the original watercolor to preserve texture, color, and movement.

🖼 View the artwork and available print sizes here