Norman Bolwell lived in Ludlow for many years before moving to Devon where he specialized in marine subjects which be produced with a real feel for the sea, and for the ships and boats that he depicts.

He has exhibited at the Royal Society of Marine Artists and he has many notable collectors of his work including the ex Member of Parliament for Ludlow Christopher Gill. His work has been influenced by the French artist Marin Marie and the English marine painter Norman Wilkinson.

Norman died twenty years ago and his paintings are seldom seen on the market. This painting ranks amongst his best, depicting the Pilot Ship off the Devon coast.