Staying On The True Course
A New Interpretation of a Classic Maritime Racing Scene
This painting is a homage to Montague Dawson. I have painted it as a new interpretation of a classic maritime racing scene, inspired by his painting ‘Rounding the Buoy’.
Staying on the True Course has been painted with the finest artist acrylic paints, produced by Old Holland, and painted onto premium canvas board. Please note: this painting is not by Montague Dawson.
Fine Art for Collectors of Maritime Nostalgia
Presentation is vital to the integrity of my work, which is why this painting is housed in a bespoke white wooden frame made to Fine Art Guild standards by a master framer. The stylish frame, and its white inner slip, is not merely a border; it's an extension of the painting's aesthetic, elevating its presence while offering collectors peace of mind that the artwork has been professionally prepared for long-term enjoyment and protection.
Boat Racing and Art
In the early 1900s, boat racing around Britain held a special place in both sporting life and popular imagination. Coastal towns and major waterways came alive with regattas that blended competition, craftsmanship, and local pride. Events along the Thames, the Solent, and around the Isle of Wight drew spectators from all walks of life, while yacht clubs became important social centers. These races were as much about elegance and seamanship as speed, reflecting a period when sailing was closely tied to tradition and national identity.
The boats themselves were a source of fascination. Sleek hulls, towering sails, and finely balanced rigs showcased advances in naval design and the skills of master boatbuilders. Painted hulls and billowing canvas created striking visual contrasts against often changeable British skies. For many observers, the sight of racing yachts cutting through choppy waters or gliding in lighter winds captured a sense of freedom, discipline, and quiet drama that felt distinctly maritime and distinctly British.
Inspiration for Maritime Artists
Maritime artists of the time found endless inspiration in these scenes. Boat races offered movement, tension, and atmosphere — elements that translated beautifully to canvas. Artists were drawn to the challenge of depicting wind and water, the precise angle of sails, and the interplay of light on waves. The drama of a close finish or a sudden shift in weather allowed painters to balance technical accuracy with expressive energy, resulting in works that felt both realistic and alive.
Beyond the races themselves, artists were also inspired by the broader culture surrounding them. Harbours filled with spectators, signal flags fluttering, and support vessels trailing the competitors added layers of narrative to racing scenes. These details helped artists convey not just the event, but the spirit of the era — a time when Britain's maritime heritage was still very much a living presence. Through their work, painters preserved the excitement and elegance of early 20th-century boat racing, leaving behind a visual record that continues to resonate today.
Classic Boat Race Art
With Staying on the True Course, my aim was to reflect the classic feel of a traditional boat race, inspired by the work of the respected maritime painter Montague Dawson. I hoped to offer my own interpretation of that style, as a quiet tribute to his remarkable approach to boat racing scenes.
Building Your Art Collection
For collectors seeking a painting that embodies both traditional artistry and the elegance of boat racing from a bygone era, this painting represents a compelling addition to any refined collection. Staying On The True Course is a painting available exclusively from my studio.
PAINTING DETAILS:
Title: Staying On The True Course.
Medium: Acrylic on canvas board.
Panel size: 13.5 x 24 in. (34.3 x 61 x 1.5 cm.)
Frame size: 18 x 28 in. (45.7 x 71.1 cm.)
Frame: White wooden frame with white inner slip.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
Painting Price: £4,500.00
Available: Direct from the artist. Please email me if you are interested in purchasing this painting.
Email: info@markwoollacott.com
Price includes UK delivery
How to Order This Painting
Ordering this painting is easy. Simply email me your contact details and let me know the title of the painting you wish to purchase (i.e. Staying On The True Course) and I will email you an invoice so you can make your payment. Please supply your full name, address and delivery address (if it is different from your home address) email address and telephone number — these details will have to go on the invoice. I will also have to provide this information to the delivery courier, who will require this information from me in order to deliver the artwork to you.
Once I have received the full payment from you for the artwork, I will carefully package the painting (include its certificate of authenticity) and prepare it for collection by the courier. I shall keep you updated by email and let you know when the courier will be collecting the artwork from me, and I will also provide you with a tracking reference number, which will allow you to check the status of the painting on the courier's website once it has been collected from me. This number will provide you with up-to-date information while the artwork is in transit and en route to your address.
IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you, or someone assigned by you, will be at the delivery address to receive the artwork when it is delivered by the courier. The parcel containing the painting may require a signature on delivery.
Order the Art Print
Staying on the True Course art print is available to buy online at Fine Art America. Choose from a variety of print sizes, select quality fine art papers, print types (e.g. paper print, canvas print, metal print etc.), and framing options to suit your home or style.
To order your print, click or tap on the logo below to go direct to my profile page at the Fine Art America website:
Mark Woollacott is a member of Artists' Union England, the trade union for visual, applied and socially engaged artists www.artistsunionengland.org.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is maritime art such a popular choice for art collectors?
Maritime art evokes a sense of escape and timeless elegance. It resonates with those who value the sea, yacht racing and sailing lifestyles. Many art collectors see maritime art as both emotionally enriching and financially sound investments.
What makes Staying on the True Course a valuable painting for investment?
Staying on the True Course is a classic boat racing painting painted by British artist Mark Woollacott. Its composition, craftsmanship, and depiction of a sought-after marine art style make it a desirable artwork, ideal for investors and collectors seeking fine art tradition and aesthetic value.
How does this painting reflect the sailing lifestyle?
This painting captures the essence of the British sailing lifestyle and regatta charm. The wooden sailing boats of yesteryear and deep connection to the sea, make it a perfect addition to refined interiors inspired by nautical living.
Intellectual Property
All images, text, and design elements on this website are the intellectual property of Mark Woollacott unless otherwise stated. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, broadcasting or use of any content — whether for commercial or personal purposes — is strictly prohibited. Please respect English and international copyright law.