Rod Buckingham introduces us to a world of commerce in Market Day 1. This rendition of a bustling market place is indicative of a time not always seen in our modern existence. Although we have all been shopping downtown at our favourite stores from time to time, the distinct styling in Rod Buckingham’s painting suggests a decades old image. From the clothes each individual wars to the style of vehicles used and even the potato sacks on the merchant truck, this is certainly not a completely modern image.
Market Day 1 is completed in an old world animation style that we can appreciate. It actually reminds the viewer of books from childhood such as Madeline and the original Disney stories such as 101 Dalmatians. Especially, when you realize how many dogs are featured in the piece.
Rod Buckingham produces a whole world within this image of a singular market. Market 1 entices the viewer to look beyond the borders of the painting in hopes of seeing something new. It asks, where are these people coming from and what might be their destination? It allows you to explore the lives of many in one, singular image. Market 1 showcases a wide range of individuals from children playing, babies being pushed along by mothers, and the plight of merchants selling their goods.
Another subtle, but important aspect we can glean from Market 1 is the time of year we are seeing. Although one might suspect it depicts the dead of winter due to heavy coats and the look of snow on the ground, we can see a few people wearing shorts and skirts. This likely indicates the painting features either spring or fall where some warmer and cooler days mix together. The expectation of cold is there, but there is also a subtle notion of warmer times.
Every time you view Market Day 1 by Rod Buckingham, you see something new. The deeper you look into the image, the more small details can be seen and that is what makes it so special. Just a static image can become boring and seem fruitless, but this one provides hope, expectation, and a sense of wonder with every viewing.
What was your exact inspiration behind Market Day 1? Is it a specific location or one you dreamt of?
Yes it is a `dreamt up` location…as are most of my paintings, actually all of them.
What made you think to include a pest control van in such a wholesome and upbeat image?
The pest control van is added because in this type of painting, I like to add old vehicles, and I find it quite amusing to come up with something comical….you will find a lot of my paintings have shops and signs with double meanings.
Do you have artists that inspire you? Who are they and why do they mean so much to you?
I am inspired by the works of lowry, as I like street scenes with a lot going on…but also I like the work of Joseph Farquaharson, his snow scenes are just so `real`. I always think there is something `Magical `about snow.
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