Between Swell and Stone

Artist’s Statement: D J Wilson, LRPS

Hermanus Old Harbour stands between stone and swell, a testament to the fishing heritage that shaped this coastline. The colourful boats rest on the slipway, waiting for the water’s return as the Atlantic breathes beyond the breakwater.

Here, history and everyday life blend into a landscape carved by sea and time creating a scene rich in culture, rhythm and the enduring story of a community shaped by the sea.

While boats ashore wait on the stone.

The sea stays blue, the slate bone

As foam writes lines the wind can read,

kelp bows down low to the ocean’s creed.

Memories hold dear, gulls line the sky—

the bay inhales, then the swells reply.

When the tide departs with iron will,

colours slip seaward, and the harbour still.