Birds on the water with sparkles. Lutry. 5.02.2026. 12x36 cm, vintage frame

Birds on the Water with Sparkles, Lutry. 05.02.2026

This original plein-air oil painting was created in Lutry, Switzerland, on a winter day along the shores of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva). Painted directly outdoors, the work captures birds drifting across the surface of the lake while sunlight breaks into countless reflections, scattering luminous sparkles across the water.

Lutry is known for its peaceful lakeside atmosphere, where the changing light of Lac Léman transforms even the simplest scenes into moments of unexpected beauty. Between the vineyards of Lavaux, the shoreline and the open water, the landscape constantly shifts through reflections, weather and seasonal changes. (lutry.ch)

On this February day, the lake appeared animated by light itself. The surface of the water shimmered with moving points of brightness while the birds glided quietly through the reflections. Their presence introduced a gentle rhythm to the composition, balancing movement and stillness within the vast open space of the lake.

Birdlife is an essential part of the landscape of Lac Léman throughout the year. The lake serves as an important habitat and seasonal refuge for many species, creating ever-changing encounters between water, light and wildlife. (Association pour la sauvegarde du Léman)

Rather than focusing on precise detail, this painting explores perception, atmosphere and fleeting visual sensations. The sparkling reflections could only be observed for a brief moment as the winter sun shifted across the water, transforming the scene from minute to minute.

Created during a single plein-air painting session, this work belongs to my ongoing series dedicated to Lutry, Lavaux and the landscapes surrounding Lake Geneva. Each painting preserves a direct encounter with a place, a season and a passing state of light observed in nature.

Original plein-air oil painting by Olga Tacan.

Location: Lutry, Lavaux, Vaud, Switzerland
Subject: Birds and sparkling reflections on Lac Léman (Lake Geneva)
Region: Lavaux lakeshore and vineyard landscape
Medium: Oil painting
Date painted: 5 February 2026

Oil on paper

Plain air painting

Size 12 x 36 cm

Size with passé partout: 17.5 x 40 cm

Framed: vintage frame 

Date: 5 February 2026

Location: Lutry, Switzerland