Lassen, Christian Riese – Hawaii Sea Passage (end Christian Riese Lassen

The artwork presents a vibrant depiction of a marine environment, dominated by a group of large cetaceans traversing a body of water that transitions from deep blue depths to a sunlit surface. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the scale and depth of the underwater realm.
Here we see a dramatic contrast between the dark foreground and the illuminated upper portion of the scene. The lower section showcases an intricate coral reef teeming with diverse marine life – various fish species, invertebrates, and colorful corals. This area is rendered in rich detail, suggesting a thriving ecosystem. Above this, the water gradually lightens, revealing several large whales swimming towards a distant shoreline.
The landmass itself is silhouetted against a spectacular sunset or sunrise; hues of orange, pink, and purple paint the sky, reflected subtly on the waters surface. The mountains are rendered as dark, imposing forms, anchoring the scene and providing a sense of geographical context. Light rays penetrate the water from above, creating an ethereal atmosphere and highlighting the movement of the whales.
The artist’s choice to depict these massive creatures in motion conveys a feeling of grandeur and power. Their size is emphasized by their proximity to the viewer, while their directionality suggests a journey or migration. The inclusion of smaller fish and coral life contributes to a sense of ecological interconnectedness.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of natural beauty, environmental preservation, and perhaps even the awe-inspiring scale of the ocean. The contrast between the vibrant underwater world and the distant landmass could be interpreted as representing the boundary between human perception and the vastness of nature. The whales’ movement implies a narrative – a passage or journey – suggesting both resilience and vulnerability within this environment.