vc JacekYerka TheoryOfTension Jacek Yerka (1952-)

The artwork presents a surreal cityscape suspended above a reflective surface, framed by a dark border that emphasizes its otherworldly nature. The central focus is a densely packed agglomeration of structures resembling medieval fortifications – towers, walls, and battlements – all rendered in warm earth tones predominantly ochre and terracotta. These architectural elements appear to be organically grown rather than constructed, their surfaces exhibiting the texture and appearance of eroded rock formations or colossal stalagmites.
The composition is dominated by verticality; the towers rise dramatically from the reflective plane, creating a sense of precariousness and instability. Several slender, pillar-like structures extend upwards beyond the main mass of buildings, further amplifying this feeling of imbalance. The surface below mirrors the cityscape with unsettling precision, blurring the distinction between reality and reflection, solid form and illusion.
The sky is painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple, suggesting a sunset or sunrise – a moment of transition and ambiguity. This atmospheric backdrop contributes to the dreamlike quality of the scene. A single rose, rendered in vibrant red, sits at the lower left corner, its presence introducing an element of beauty and perhaps fragility within this imposing landscape.
Subtexts within the work seem to explore themes of societal structure, power, and the relationship between humanity and nature. The tightly packed architecture could be interpreted as a commentary on rigid social hierarchies or oppressive systems. The organic appearance of the buildings suggests that these structures have evolved naturally, potentially implying an inherent instability or vulnerability. The reflective surface introduces questions about perception and reality – is what we see truly real, or merely a distorted image? The rose, in its isolation, might symbolize beauty, hope, or even rebellion against the dominant forces at play within this constructed world. Overall, the painting evokes a sense of unease and wonder, prompting contemplation on the nature of existence and the structures that define it.