yacek-yerka 19 Jacek Yerka (1952-)

The composition presents a surreal landscape where architectural and natural elements blend in unexpected ways. The scene is divided into distinct horizontal layers, each possessing its own visual character while contributing to a unified, dreamlike whole.
At the uppermost level, we observe a meticulously manicured garden, characterized by precisely shaped hedges, ornamental trees with vibrant autumnal foliage, and a stately building crowned with a clock tower. This structure appears as an idealized representation of institutional power or perhaps a nostalgic vision of a bygone era. The symmetry and order within this section suggest control and established tradition.
Below the formal garden lies a body of water that dominates the middle ground. Its surface is not still, but rather displays swirling patterns reminiscent of flowing currents or even turbulent emotions. This dynamic quality contrasts sharply with the static nature of the upper level, hinting at underlying instability or hidden depths. The reflection of the building above distorts and fragments within this watery expanse, further complicating its perception.
The lowest layer depicts a road leading to a vintage automobile positioned on a small bridge spanning the waters edge. This element introduces a sense of journey or transition, suggesting movement away from the structured world above towards an unknown destination. The car’s classic design evokes a feeling of timelessness and perhaps a longing for simpler times.
The color palette is predominantly warm, with rich greens, oranges, and yellows dominating the garden section, while cooler blues and pinks are used to depict the water and sky. This contrast enhances the visual separation between the layers and contributes to the overall sense of unreality.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of order versus chaos, memory versus reality, and the passage of time. The juxtaposition of rigid architectural forms with organic shapes suggests a tension between human control and the natural world. The distorted reflections and surreal perspective invite contemplation on the subjective nature of perception and the fragility of established structures. Ultimately, the work evokes a sense of melancholy and introspection, prompting viewers to question their own relationship to memory, tradition, and progress.