‘The River Lea’ by Rupert Shephard

The River Lea flows through eastern London where it joins the River Thames. Gravel was extracted along its lower lengths, and its banks are still covered by warehouses for industry. This linocut captures that gritty aspect: huge cranes and chimneys line the horizon; barges are tied to the wharf. But this is a favourite amongst Shephard’s prints because the realism of its subject matter is alleviated by the strength of its geometry and the vibrancy of its colours.