#04423 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The composition presents a landscape dominated by a monumental architectural structure set against a pale sky. The foreground is occupied by dense foliage rendered in shades of yellow and ochre, obscuring much of the lower portion of the scene and creating a visual barrier between the viewer and the building. A slender spire rises from behind this screen of vegetation, hinting at an adjacent, less prominent structure.
The central focus lies on the imposing edifice itself, characterized by its complex, layered design and dark coloration. Its scale dwarfs the surrounding landscape, conveying a sense of grandeur and permanence. The artist has employed a simplified style; details are minimized, and forms are reduced to their essential shapes, lending an almost dreamlike quality to the scene.
The sky is rendered in muted blues and whites, with a bright, diffused light source positioned centrally above the building. This illumination does not cast strong shadows but rather creates a soft, even glow that washes over the entire composition. The effect contributes to a feeling of serenity and stillness.
Subtly, theres an interplay between concealment and revelation. While the foliage partially hides elements of the scene, it also draws attention to what is visible – the imposing architecture and the expansive sky. This suggests themes of faith, mystery, or perhaps the enduring presence of historical structures within a natural setting. The subdued palette reinforces this atmosphere of quiet contemplation, inviting reflection on the relationship between humanity’s creations and the environment that surrounds them.