pa LassenCR 43 StarlightLahaina Christian Riese Lassen

The circular composition presents a layered depiction of marine life and a distant coastal scene. The lower portion is dominated by a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish, coral formations, and several playful dolphins. These creatures are rendered in a highly stylized manner, emphasizing their forms through bold outlines and saturated hues. A sense of movement pervades this section, as the fish appear to swirl and dart amidst the coral structures.
Above this aquatic realm, the scene transitions to a depiction of the ocean’s surface at twilight. Here we see several humpback whales breaching, their massive bodies silhouetted against a fiery sunset. The sky is painted with intense oranges, yellows, and blues, creating a dramatic contrast with the darker tones of the water below. A tall-masted sailing ship is visible on the horizon, anchored near a cluster of buildings that suggest a coastal town or resort.
The artist’s choice to divide the image into distinct zones – the underwater world and the surface scene – implies a duality between the hidden depths and the visible world. The presence of the human-built structures in the distance introduces an element of civilization intruding upon the natural environment, potentially hinting at themes of interaction or conflict between humanity and the ocean.
The circular format itself contributes to the painting’s overall effect, evoking a sense of wholeness and cyclicality – perhaps alluding to the continuous flow of life within the marine ecosystem. The bright colors and dynamic composition contribute to an atmosphere of wonder and celebration of the natural world, while the inclusion of human elements introduces a layer of complexity that invites contemplation about our relationship with it.