MOONDANCE

by Petra Schüßler

“Moondance” (2012) is a deeply atmospheric work that celebrates the fluid connection between music and painting. I was inspired to create this piece by “Moondance”, one of my absolute favourite songs from the magnificent 1970 album of the same name by the Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. Just like the song, this painting exudes an exuberant, jazzy and deeply vibrant elegance. The narrow portrait format features a vertical, abstract composition in vibrant shades of orange, red and elegant gold. Gentle, almost shimmering colour gradients open up the upper section and capture the magical, vibrant light of a moonlit dance. In the lower section, block-like areas and narrow, vertical lines form a clear, almost rhythmic structure. My intricate technique, involving transparent glazes, sharp edges and overlapping rectangles, creates a fascinating depth and a lively, multi-layered surface. In an interior setting, ‘Moondance’ makes an extremely elegant and modern statement thanks to its unusual panoramic portrait format. It brings a vibrant, warming energy to the room whilst maintaining a harmonious balance. As a vertical focal point, it is ideal for narrow wall spaces, next to windows or in combination with modern living areas, to lend the room an artistic, inspiring atmosphere full of rhythm and light.