pic07378 Shen Mei (1947-)

The diptych presents a stylized depiction of avian life within a lush aquatic environment. The composition is divided into two distinct panels, each featuring a bird amidst dense foliage and water lilies. A sense of depth is created through layering and the use of dark greens and blacks as a backdrop, suggesting an obscured or submerged perspective.
On the left panel, a flamingo dominates the view. Its plumage exhibits a striking contrast between vibrant pink on its head and breast and stark white along its neck and wings. The bird’s posture suggests it is actively foraging amongst the water lilies, which are rendered with simplified forms and delicate petal details. A few lotus blossoms emerge from the water, adding to the overall sense of serenity and natural abundance.
The right panel showcases a swan, depicted in predominantly white hues. Its feathers are meticulously detailed, conveying a feeling of softness and grace. The swan’s neck curves elegantly, its head turned slightly as if observing something beyond the frame. Below it, a cluster of red flowers provides a visual counterpoint to the dominant white tones.
The artists choice of color is significant; the pink and white hues evoke associations with purity, elegance, and perhaps even fragility. The dark background creates an atmosphere of mystery and seclusion, hinting at hidden depths within the natural world. The simplified forms and flattened perspective suggest a deliberate departure from realism, leaning towards a more symbolic or decorative aesthetic.
The diptych’s arrangement invites contemplation on themes of duality – contrasting colors, different bird species, and distinct compositions within each panel. It could be interpreted as an exploration of balance, harmony, and the interconnectedness of life within a natural ecosystem. The overall effect is one of quiet beauty and understated elegance.