cr TimWistrom-AWholeNewBallGame Tim Wistrom

The composition presents a surreal juxtaposition of urban and natural elements, rendered in a muted color palette dominated by blues, grays, and pinks. A vast expanse of water occupies the majority of the frame, reflecting the sky above and obscuring much of what lies beneath. Rising from this watery landscape are the skeletal remains of tall buildings, their architectural details suggesting a modern cityscape now submerged. To the right, a large stadium structure looms, its tiered seating empty and echoing the sense of abandonment pervading the scene.
Several seals populate the foreground. One is depicted emerging from the water, creating ripples that disturb the otherwise still surface. Another adult seal rests on a small strip of land alongside a pup, their presence introducing an element of life and seeming normalcy into this desolate environment. A solitary bird flies across the expanse of water, adding to the feeling of quiet solitude.
The artist’s choice of subject matter strongly suggests commentary on environmental concerns and potential societal collapse. The submerged buildings imply a catastrophic event – perhaps rising sea levels or some other form of natural disaster – that has rendered human infrastructure obsolete. The seals, seemingly unperturbed by this devastation, represent an adaptation to the new reality, highlighting natures resilience in the face of human failure.
The stadium’s presence is particularly poignant; it symbolizes entertainment and large-scale gatherings, now rendered silent and useless. Its stark contrast with the natural elements underscores a critique of humanity’s priorities and its relationship with the environment. The overall effect is one of melancholy reflection on loss, adaptation, and the uncertain future of civilization. The framing border adds to the sense of distance and observation, as if viewing a scene from outside of time or reality.