In this atmospheric landscape, Mohd Zain Idris depicts the complex process of tin mining methods and labour, involving the process of gravel pump mining. The tall wooden scaffolding is deftly illustrated in the background. Combined with muted colours in the foreground, the scene depicts the use of high-pressure water jets to break down ore bearing ground.
Though little is known about M. Zain Idris, he was a rare State artist appointed by the Terengganu State Government. The Chief Minister afforded him a studio and residence in Kuala Terengganu, complete with a stipend. As an artist, he was driven by a wanderlust, and often travelled outside the State to paint, Kelantan and even as far as Kuala Lumpur. Dubbed the Fisherman Artist, Zain had become a full time artist after he was discovered by the pioneer gallerist, art critic cum promoter Frank Sullivan, who even gave him a solo at his Samat Art Gallery. Sullivan was then Press Secretary to Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaya's first prime minister. He had a joint exhibition with Kasim Abas at the Equatorial Hotel KL in 1984, and at the Shangri-La Hotel KL in 1987.