Into the Blue
Into the Blue (2021)
24¼x18¼ Pastel on Pastel Paper
Original is Available
Colors carry deep emotions, and blue represents serenity, calm, hope, and rejuvenation. Often, during times of angst or distress, it is important to simply submerge yourself Into the Blue.
The inspiration for this piece came from Iceland’s geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon and Mývatn, one of my favorite places in the world.
Recreating the milky, volcanic turquoise water of an Icelandic hot spring in pastels was a unique challenge. To convey that soothing atmosphere, I used soft, blended strokes to build up the heavy, rising steam and mist that blurs out the distant mountains. This dreamy background contrast helps ground the central figure, letting the light reflect naturally off his wet skin, chest hair, and northern tattoos while capturing that refreshing feeling of escaping into nature.
