Ancient Rhythms Christian Riese Lassen

The triptych presents a vibrant and stylized depiction of marine life within a fantastical environment. The composition is divided into three distinct panels, each contributing to a narrative flow that suggests a journey or cycle.
The leftmost panel establishes a lush, tropical setting dominated by a cascading waterfall. Dense vegetation frames the scene, with various fish species visible amongst the rocks and foliage. Several dolphins are positioned in the foreground, seemingly emerging from the water’s depths, their forms rendered with an emphasis on smooth curves and dynamic movement. The color palette here is predominantly green and blue, evoking a sense of vitality and abundance.
The central panel shifts focus to a large whale, its form dominating the composition. The creature appears to be breaching or surfacing, creating a powerful visual impact. Surrounding it are more dolphins, their postures suggesting interaction and playfulness. A rocky island rises in the background, partially obscured by swirling water and atmospheric haze. This section employs a deeper, richer blue hue, lending an air of mystery and grandeur.
The rightmost panel transitions to a sunset scene over the ocean. The sun is positioned low on the horizon, casting a warm glow across the sky and reflecting off the water’s surface. A pod of dolphins are shown leaping from the waves, their silhouettes sharply defined against the vibrant backdrop. This final panel utilizes warmer tones – oranges, reds, and yellows – to create a sense of closure and tranquility.
The overall effect is one of idealized beauty and harmony between marine life and its environment. The artist’s choice to depict these creatures in such a stylized manner suggests an attempt to transcend realism, perhaps aiming for a symbolic representation of the oceans power and majesty. The triptych format reinforces this sense of progression or cyclical return, implying that the depicted events are part of an ongoing natural process. Subtly, there is a suggestion of human absence; the scene feels untouched by civilization, emphasizing the pristine nature of the environment and the creatures inhabiting it.