p Christian Lassen Cal2001 09 Christian Riese Lassen

The triptych presents a nocturnal marine scene dominated by orcas and vibrant coral reef life. The composition is divided into three distinct panels, each contributing to a unified narrative while maintaining individual visual focus. A full moon hangs prominently in the sky above the central panel, its luminescence casting an ethereal glow across the water’s surface and illuminating the surrounding landscape of silhouetted palm trees and distant mountains.
The artist has employed a rich palette, with deep blues and purples defining the night sky and depths of the ocean, contrasted by the intense yellows, oranges, and reds of the coral formations and schooling fish. The orcas are rendered in considerable detail, their dark forms cutting through the illuminated water, conveying both power and grace. They appear to be engaged in a dynamic interaction – some breach the surface, while others swim beneath, creating a sense of movement and depth within the scene.
The foreground is densely populated with various species of fish and coral, suggesting a thriving ecosystem. The artist’s attention to detail here – the individual markings on the fish, the intricate textures of the coral – creates an immersive quality, drawing the viewer into this underwater world.
Subtly, the triptych format itself introduces layers of meaning. It evokes traditional religious altarpieces, potentially suggesting a reverence for nature and its creatures. The division into three panels could symbolize different aspects of the marine environment – perhaps the surface, the mid-water depths, and the seabed – or represent a progression in time or narrative.
The overall effect is one of awe and wonder, inviting contemplation on the beauty and mystery of the ocean’s depths while hinting at themes of natural harmony and the interconnectedness of life. The artists choice to depict this scene under the cover of night lends it an air of tranquility and enchantment, further enhancing its captivating quality.