The Botwood Mural Arts Society were seeking information as to the identity of the young lad and were planning on painting a mural based on it. I tried to contact them but was unsuccessful and I do not know if they completed their project or not.
I was really taken by this image for several reasons. The practically square wheels on the water cart is hilarious, imagine the sloshing and splashing that there must have been when the cart got moving. I liked the feeling of nostalgia the scene evoked.
The Water Nipper's job was very important in Newfoundland back then, when water lines were limited, if they existed at all, and a crew of hardworking men required lots of fresh cold water.
Of course, I took some artistic liberties with it, including adding the kitten, so as to improve the composition and add interest, but I think the picture retains the important elements. This is a subject that Norman Rockwell would have loved. I couldn't resist it!
Noel
