Watermark Cruises Commissions Local Artist - Lee Boynton

Released: October 6, 2005

Media Contact: Wendy Thomas, Watermark Director of Marketing
Phone: 410-268-7601 x 111, Email: wendy@watermarkjourney.com
Web Site: www.watermarkjourney.com

The Emma Giles Leaving Annapolis, 1900
Annapolis Harbor, 1890
Yacht Race on the Tred Avon, 1940

Annapolis Tours and Watermark Cruises, the area’s largest and most diverse tour and charter company has taken delivery on its third and final piece of original artwork painted by local artist, Lee Boynton.

The company commissioned three original paintings from Boynton to compliment the recent renovations aboard Catherine Marie, the company’s largest luxury yacht. “We wanted pieces that would contribute to the elegance of Catherine Marie and reflect the rich history of our area. Lee [Boynton] not only paints beautifully but takes tremendous care to be historically accurate” commented Debbie Gosselin, President of Annapolis Tours and Watermark Cruises. “We’re really pleased to have all three finished and installed before the holiday party season.”

For inspiration, Boynton and Gosselin turned to Maritime Hall of Fame photographer Marion E. Warren. Together they searched through Warren’s collection that was donated to the Maryland State Archives in 1987. It was there that they found the inspiration for Boynton’s pieces: The Emma Giles Leaving Annapolis, Annapolis Harbor, and Yacht Race on the Tred Avon. According to Boynton, “Warren’s work is an important part of the tapestry of Annapolis”. In addition to the photographs, Boynton obtained permission to go to the top of the Maryland Statehouse dome to ensure that lighting in the paintings were correct. He also took to the skies in an airplane over the Chesapeake Bay to observe the light and reflection on the water. “As an impressionist, my goal is to tell the story”, said Boynton.

Lee Boynton is best known for applying impressionist theories of color and light to watercolor. Boynton is a dynamic teacher, dedicated to passing on the Impressionist tradition, which, he believes, is an improvement on the artist's ability to depict reality. In 1995 he completed a year-long commission to paint three historic murals in oil for the City Council Chambers in Annapolis, Md., depicting three major events in Annapolis history. He continues to build a reputation for accurate historical work in both watercolor and oil. (www.leeboynton.com)

Annapolis Tours and Watermark Cruises own and operate eleven (11) vessels in their fleet for public tour and private events including corporate events, weddings and social gatherings. They also conduct colonial attired walking tours through the historic district and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Digital Images available upon request