'Stillness in Splendour': a modern painting of clear Mediterranean seawater

by Dirk van der Ven

Bring the serene tranquillity of the Mediterranean coast into your home and lose yourself in the reflection.

Step right onto the Mediterranean shore and gaze out over the water from the rocky bank. It’s only with this view of the rippling water that you can truly catch your breath. Can you already see the sun breaking through the crystal-clear surface of the water, where past and present merge silently?

In the foreground, right at your feet, the jagged, ochre-yellow rocks just below and above the water’s surface stand out vividly thanks to the creamy-white reflections of light. From this personal vantage point, your gaze wanders straight backwards, further across the water. There, shades of olive green, turquoise and azure blue blend seamlessly into one another. This subtle interplay of light and fluid movement completely soothes the mind.

The layered composition combines digital techniques; fine pencil lines have been digitally superimposed over the transparent watercolour and opaque acrylic strokes to powerfully emphasise the contours. These delicate lines alternate with looser, impressionistic brushstrokes, lending the depth of field and fine texture a unique depth. This piece is a perfect fit for a mindfulness or wellness studio, but is equally well suited to bringing a serene haven of calm to your own home.