Step into a world of color and wonder with 'Paddy Paddling, the Philippines.' This magnificently vibrant painting by world-renowned artist John Dyer captures the natural beauty and spirit of the Philippines.
Ducks are an important staple in Filipino culture, and this painting depicts them in their element, searching for grains of rice in the paddy fields. The ducks eat rice that is too difficult to pick up by hand, making them an essential part of the rice harvest story. The ducks are also raced at the weekends for fun and their eggs are used for cooking.
'Paddy Paddling, the Philippines' is not only a beautiful work of art, but it also tells an important cultural story. It is sure to bring joy and inspiration to anyone who sees it.
Item Information
Description |
Framed Original Painting |
Artist |
Cornish Artist John Dyer (born 1968) |
Signed by the Artist |
Signed by John Dyer |
Painting size |
24 x 24 inches |
Medium |
Acrylic on canvas |
Framed size |
32 x 32 inches |
Frame type |
John Dyer: In the 1950s simple neutral frames became popular for St Ives artists. John chooses an off-white so the lightest tones appear in the painting. The moulding is a variation of 'Salvator Rosa' from Italy. Hand-finished in almond white paint. |
Ready to hang |
Strung with picture cord and ready to hang |
"After the winnowing there are still rice grains in the fields; but too little to collect by hand. To make the most of the remaining rice the farmers herd in hundreds and hundreds of ducks to feed on the rice. The ducks peck and squabble amongst the rice plants – collecting every last grain. The sight is amazing, with the upside-down moon of the southern hemisphere, towering palm trees and the lights of the village twinkling on the edge of the paddy. The farmer finally herds the ducks back to their tin and wood house – which is also the pump house for moving water into the paddy fields. The ducks will lay many eggs that are used for food, and to add a competitive edge the ducks are also raced as a local sport! I pack up my paints and share Coca-Cola, sweet potato and mango with the farmer who owns the land."
John Dyer

The painting is featured in the book 'Painting the Colours of the World' by Kate Dinn.
Artist Information Links
Read about artist John Dyer
Artist Chronology I Paintings in Public Collections I View John Dyer's Latest Paintings