Wells’ interest in environmentalism is captured in these studies through the delicate and finely detailed imagery of fish. The fish are isolated on the surface of the canvas with sharp text and cold metal-like matter situated below. The combination of raw pigment, drawing, writing and scoring creates a style of painting unique to Wells. The coils of the fishing line juxtaposed with the metallic- like background is intense and reads heavy, but the lightness quickly comes back through the unique technique of pencil shading in each drawing.

In each of these works Wells etches in the word ‘Paradise’. Paradise is strategically placed below the fish near the fishing line, adding significance to the placement. To many, paradise is a place of contentment, a land of luxury and fulfillment. Paradise is often described as a “higher place”, the holiest place, in contrast to this world. Though in this context the word paradise is used much more mysteriously and is seemingly contradicting its placement.

In Lynton Wells’ fish drawings humor and imagination are found through the imagery of fish fishing for fish. This unusual take on how fish are typically perceived leaves the viewer wondering if paradise is found underneath it all. Wells’ work entices the viewer with much more than meets the eye.