Artwork
The Hill of the Winds
The Hill of the Winds is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist David Young Cameron. It dates from 1913 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1913, *The Hill of the Winds* is an oil painting by Scottish artist David Young Cameron. Executed during the later phase of his career, the work is part of the Scottish National Gallery’s collection and exemplifies his interest in rugged natural scenery.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas depicts a stark mountain ridge rising sharply against a cloudy, gray sky. The summit is jagged and rock‑filled, while the slopes descend into a barren valley. The foreground is strewn with lifeless stone, conveying a sense of isolation and the harshness of the landscape.
Technique & Style
Although Cameron is often associated with the Etching Revival, this piece showcases his oil painting practice. The handling of paint reflects an impressionist approach, with loose brushwork that captures atmospheric light and the texture of rock and sky rather than precise detail.
History & Provenance
After its completion, the painting entered the holdings of the Scottish National Gallery, where it remains on view. Its acquisition underscores the institution’s commitment to representing Scotland’s natural environment through the work of native artists such as Cameron.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir David Young Cameron (28 June 1865 – 16 September 1945) was a Scottish painter and, with greater success, etcher, mostly of townscapes and landscapes in both cases. He was a leading figure in the final decades of the Etching Revival.
