Part of the collection 'measuring land & sea'. Here Oliver contrasts a traditional artistic depiction of the ocean with formal scientific measurements. In this way he examines the often sisyphean quest for self-improvement in its many forms, pondering both the arrogance of man and the temptation to be brutally ignorant. His sensitive painting style, ear for laughter, and lightness of touch, though, mean the viewer always takes these pertinent questions in good faith.