Lutry new port. 24.06.2025. 14x26.5 cm

Lutry. New Port. 24.06.2025

This original plein-air oil painting was created in Lutry, Switzerland, on 24 June 2025 near the newer harbour area on the shores of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva). Painted directly outdoors, the work captures the atmosphere of the lakeside port in early summer, where boats, water, sky and light come together within the distinctive landscape of Lavaux.

Lutry is one of the most characteristic lakeside towns of the canton of Vaud and marks the western entrance to the Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage region. Between the vineyards, the historic village and the open waters of Lac Léman, the town maintains a close relationship with the lake that has shaped its identity for centuries. (Lutry)

The newer harbour area, known as Port du Vieux-Stand, was developed to respond to the growing importance of lake navigation and local maritime life. Situated west of the historic port, it extends the connection between Lutry and the water while offering open views across the lake and toward the distant Alps. (Lutry)

On this June day, summer light spread across the harbour and the surface of Lac Léman. Reflections shifted continuously around the boats and along the water, while the atmosphere carried the brightness and clarity characteristic of early summer. The scene balanced movement and stillness: the quiet presence of the harbour contrasted with the constantly changing reflections of the lake.

Rather than focusing on the port as an architectural structure alone, the painting explores the relationship between human presence and the larger landscape. Boats, docks and water become part of a broader dialogue between the built environment and the natural atmosphere of Lac Léman.

The shores of Lavaux are known for their remarkable combination of lake, vineyards and mountain views. From Lutry, the landscape opens toward both the lake and the terraced slopes above, creating a setting where everyday life unfolds within one of the most celebrated cultural landscapes of Switzerland. (Lutry)

Created during a single plein-air painting session, this work preserves a direct encounter with summer light and lakeside atmosphere. The reflections, changing colours and quiet rhythm of the harbour became the essential elements of the composition.

This painting belongs to my ongoing series dedicated to Lutry, Lavaux and the landscapes surrounding Lake Geneva. Each work records a specific moment of light, season and atmosphere observed directly in nature.

Original plein-air oil painting by Olga Tacan.

Location: Port du Vieux-Stand, Lutry, Vaud, Switzerland

Subject: Harbour and summer atmosphere on Lac Léman (Lake Geneva)

Region: Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage landscape

Medium: Oil painting

Date painted: 24 June 2025

Oil on paper

Plain air painting

Size14 cm x 26.5 cm

Size with passé-partout  24x36 cm 

Date: 24 June 2025

Location: Lutry, Switzerland