Lahaina Visions(Lassen Island)(1991) (Adamas) Christian Riese Lassen

The artwork presents a panoramic view divided into five distinct panels, creating a triptych-like composition. The upper portion of each panel depicts a coastal landscape at dusk or dawn, characterized by a vibrant sunset/sunrise casting warm hues across the sky and illuminating rolling hills in the distance. Buildings are visible along the shoreline, suggesting a populated area with a sense of human presence integrated into the natural environment.
Below this terrestrial scene, the composition transitions dramatically to an underwater realm. A profusion of marine life dominates the lower half of each panel: schools of fish, including angelfish and clownfish, coral formations, and several large whales breach the surface in dynamic poses. The water itself is rendered with a luminous quality, reflecting the colors from above while maintaining a sense of depth and transparency.
The artist’s use of color is striking; deep blues and purples define the twilight sky and underwater depths, contrasted by the fiery oranges and reds of the sunset/sunrise. This juxtaposition creates visual tension and draws attention to the interplay between land and sea. The compositions division into panels suggests a fragmented perspective, perhaps hinting at multiple viewpoints or layers of understanding.
Subtly, there’s an implied narrative unfolding across the five sections. The whales appear to be migrating or interacting with each other, their movements suggesting a journey or a cycle. The presence of human structures alongside the natural world introduces themes of co-existence and potential conflict between civilization and environment. The overall effect is one of awe and wonder at the beauty and complexity of both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, while also prompting reflection on humanitys relationship with these environments.

The signature in the lower right corner suggests a personal connection to this vision.