Léman. Lutry. July. 2025. 11.5x26.5 cm

Léman, Lutry. July 2025

This original plein-air oil painting was created in Lutry, Switzerland, during the summer of July 2025 on the shores of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva). Painted directly outdoors, the work captures the luminous atmosphere of the lake in midsummer, when light, water and air seem to merge into a single field of colour and reflection.

Lutry lies at the entrance of the Lavaux region, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape where terraced vineyards descend toward the waters of Lac Léman. Positioned between the lake, the vineyards and the distant Alps, the village is shaped by a constant dialogue between nature, light and seasonal change. (Lutry)

On this July day, the lake appeared calm yet alive with subtle movement. Sunlight spread across the surface of the water, creating shifting reflections that changed from moment to moment. The atmosphere carried the clarity and warmth characteristic of summer on Lac Léman, where distance becomes softened by light and the horizon seems to dissolve into the sky.

Rather than focusing on a specific landmark, the painting is dedicated to the presence of the lake itself. The composition explores the relationship between transparency, colour and space, where water becomes both subject and atmosphere. The landscape is reduced to its essential elements: light, air and the quiet rhythm of the lake.

The shores of Lac Léman are known for their unique microclimates and changing atmospheric conditions, which continuously transform the appearance of the water and surrounding landscape. Even subtle variations in weather can alter the colours, reflections and mood of the lake throughout the day. (Reddit)

Created during a single plein-air painting session, this work preserves a direct encounter with the summer light of Léman. The painting records a fleeting moment when water, sky and atmosphere seemed suspended in perfect balance before changing once again.

This work belongs to my ongoing series dedicated to Lutry, Lavaux and the landscapes surrounding Lake Geneva. Each painting records a specific experience of place, season and natural light observed directly outdoors.

Original plein-air oil painting by Olga Tacan.

Location: Lutry, Lavaux, Vaud, Switzerland
Subject: Summer atmosphere on Lac Léman (Lake Geneva)
Region: Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage landscape
Medium: Oil painting
Date painted: July 2025

Oil on paper

Plain air painting

Size 11.5cm x 26.5 cm

Size with passé-partout 25x47 cm 

Date: July 2025

Location: Lutry, Switzerland