The Scottish Highlander, a beloved symbol of rugged nature, has a colourful past. Until 1849, most Scottish highlanders were black in colour. But in 1840, Queen Victoria expressed her preference for red animals, simply because she found them more beautiful. She ordered more red highlanders to be bred, and since then blonde and black highlanders have become rarer. If you look closely at a painting of the Scottish highlander, you might even spot Queen Victoria. Majestic and royally present, she is part of the history of these magnificent animals. But what does the text on the painting say? "Just because I'm sharp doesn't mean I can't also be soft and fluffy." A powerful message about the duality of nature, where sharpness and softness can go hand in hand. Humans often tend to make snap judgements, but is that always the most important thing? It is a question raised by this artwork. Perhaps there is more to see and understand when we look without prejudice at the beauty of nature and its many facets. This digital painting is rich in detail, and it is a real pleasure to admire it up close. It can be printed beautifully large, enhancing the complexity and splendour of the Scottish Highlander and the message of the text. A work of art that invites us to look deeper, reflect and appreciate the natural world around us.
There are four versions of the poem in French, German, English, and Dutch.
All the things you see are made by yourself. I play with this grouping of colours and shades into objects and concepts. My work is digital or "real". Then I paint after my own work. The "painting" is never about what you think is on it, so it's also.. Read more…