Sea Of Light

This is a painting by famed artist/typographer – Roger Dean. As Dean’s work appears on some of my favourite albums covers (most of which by prog-rock band Yes), I chose to pick an image I am unfamiliar with.

I view this as a very dynamic composition in regards to the rocks in the background and how they protrude from the sea at an unnatural angle, along with the floating rock which gives this painting a nod towards the surreal.  Whereas most rocks and cliffs depicted in landscapes are jagged and somewhat foreboding, these cliffs are particularly smooth and well-weathered despite their size. The lack of breakages and straight edges make them subliminally more inviting, adding to the images warming feel. And although clouds are present in the background, the majority of the sky is left clear making this an open framed composition, adding to its light and airy feel. The lack of waves or strain on the trees suggests that there is little or no wind, yet I believe this is left open to interpretation.

I particularly like the shade of yellow used on the rock faces, predominantly in the foreground. Not only does this suggest the time of day, but denotes the sun setting just out of frame to the left, supported by the shadow cast behind the oddly floating rock. This shade of yellow in contrast to the background palette gives this painting a somewhat sombre and uneasy feel, contrary to its soft overall structure. I find this deliberate clash somewhat fascinating.

The depth of the foreground colour in comparison to the background gives the viewer a strong sense of place within the painting. The contrast between these colours shows that the viewer is considerably higher than sea level.  This is supported by the mist hovering above the sea, which also draws the eye to the base of the mountains in the background giving them a clearer sense of scale.

Although the plant life suggests that we (the viewer) are on the mainland, the trees in the background hint that there is similar plant life on the other rocks. Thus suggesting we could be stood on our own rock out at sea, and that a panoramic view could only reveal much of the same found in this composition. This aspect of the painting adds a greater sense of mystery and awe to this otherworldly scene. In short – I love this painting.