They Only Come Out at Night Jim Warren

The composition presents a nocturnal seascape dominated by vibrant, unnatural colors and fantastical elements. A full moon hangs prominently in the sky, its light reflecting intensely on the waters surface and illuminating a procession of unicorns emerging from the ocean depths. These creatures, rendered with considerable detail, appear to be wading through breaking waves, their forms partially submerged and creating a dynamic sense of movement.
The artist placed a small island topped with what appears to be a castle structure in the distance, adding an element of fairytale grandeur to the scene. The sky itself is a gradient of purples, blues, and oranges, suggesting either twilight or an otherworldly luminescence.
In the foreground, two diminutive figures are positioned on a rocky outcrop: a fairy and a mermaid. The fairy sits perched upon tangled roots, her wings delicately rendered, while the mermaid rests on a dark rock, her tail partially visible. Their small scale in relation to the larger scene emphasizes their role as observers or guardians of this magical event.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of myth and folklore. The unicorns, traditionally symbols of purity and grace, are presented not as ethereal beings but as tangible creatures interacting with a powerful natural force – the ocean. Their emergence from the water suggests a hidden world, accessible only under specific conditions (the night, the moonlight).
The presence of the fairy and mermaid reinforces this sense of secrecy and enchantment. They seem to be privy to a spectacle that remains unseen by ordinary eyes, hinting at a realm where fantasy and reality intertwine. The castle on the distant island further contributes to this narrative, suggesting a kingdom or sanctuary for these mythical beings.
The color palette, while fantastical, also evokes a sense of melancholy and mystery. The deep blues and purples create an atmosphere of quiet contemplation, while the vibrant oranges offer a glimmer of hope or wonder amidst the darkness. Overall, the work conveys a feeling of longing for a world beyond our own, a place where magic still exists.