JLM-Christian Lassen 02 Christian Riese Lassen

The artwork presents a vibrant underwater scene, dominated by marine life and rendered with a striking sense of depth and luminosity. The composition is structured around a central grouping of orcas, positioned slightly above the horizontal midpoint and drawing immediate attention. These large cetaceans are depicted in dynamic motion, their forms suggesting power and grace as they navigate the aqueous environment. Surrounding them is a profusion of other aquatic creatures: dolphins leap through the water, schools of smaller fish shimmer with iridescent colors, and various coral formations and invertebrate life populate the foreground.
The artist has employed a palette primarily consisting of blues and greens to evoke the characteristic hues of deep ocean waters. Light filters down from above, creating shafts of illumination that highlight certain areas while leaving others in shadow, contributing significantly to the illusion of three-dimensionality. The surface of the water is visible at the top edge of the frame, appearing as a shimmering line where sunlight breaks through, suggesting an opening to another world.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of marine life, the painting seems to convey themes related to abundance and harmony within a natural ecosystem. The sheer variety of species presented suggests a thriving environment, while their interactions – the orcas’ presence alongside the smaller fish and dolphins – imply a complex web of relationships. There is an underlying sense of tranquility; despite the implied movement of the animals, the overall impression is one of peaceful coexistence.
The artists choice to present this scene from a perspective that places the viewer underwater fosters a feeling of immersion and invites contemplation about the hidden wonders of the ocean depths. The darkness surrounding the illuminated area further emphasizes the mystery and vastness of the marine world, hinting at what remains unseen beyond the frame.