Inspired by Eugène Boudin (1824 – 1898) – Figures heaving (around 1854 – 1860) – Pastel on grey paper – 9,45 x 12,60 inch

Mads was born in a small fishing village in Norway, Sto. Nothing ever happens. Just a few tourists here and there. He is bored out of his mind. So to clear his head, sometimes he goes on his own, like a grown up at the grand old age of eight, on the seashore, where it is dangerous and steep. Where his big brother fell down and never came back. Mates tell him he’s dead. But this is not true, he was rescued by a couple of whales and since he lives quietly at the other end of the world. Mads likes telling stories. He also talks a lot with his mother, espacially when she prepares dinner for her father, her maternal grandparents and her younger sister Hana. And during supper, he carries on. That’s what makes him feel alive.

That morning we deal with tiny waves and low tide. Away, Mads notices a shape. Like a small boat but … oh no, a water stream gushes. It’s a whale, or rather a calf. But it’s too close to the riverside, for sure. The adults stay away but gradually drifting further away. They can’t step in to help their young one, the water is not deep enough. Without further delay, he runs to his village to warn his father tinkering on the harbour. Mads is having difficulty catching his breath. He repeats the facts over and over. Obviously, his father doesn’t get it. He thinks his son, expert in fairytales, is making up stories again. He goes back to work. Mads tries to explain the event to his grandfather, who immediately catches the critical situation. He involves a few friends nearby, then rushes into the pub and takes with him all available arms, men or women, whatever.

Evryone, outfitted with ropes and nets, is busy around the calf, being very careful. Scaring the animal or worse hurting him is certainly not an option. Mads made himself clear, the baby is to join his parents safe and sound. The rescue team spreads huge efforts. Some slip, others skin themselves. Suddenly, the calf backs out and gets away offshore.