Light in Arts – A Short Reflection on Illumination

On Contrast, Atmosphere and Some Ink Pieces

After painting so much about Corona, I felt it was time to step back. By February 2022, I had enough work for the planned exhibition. A pause would give me a chance to look at the series again before deciding whether to continue.

While gathering my tributes to artists who have influenced me, I found myself thinking of Lyonel Feininger. I have not tried to paint in his style. Yet his work has long stood for something essential to me: light.

I had thought of him a few years earlier while visiting the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. The light inside brought his paintings to mind. To me, he understood that particular quality of church light: diffuse, mysterious, uplifting and comforting. Moon Shadow is my own response to that association.

In the recent Corona and snow studies, I had begun exploring winter light. After paintings of snow and frozen water, another viewpoint suggested itself: looking up at the light from beneath a sheet of ice.

In the works that followed, I wanted to find something of that filtered light. The smaller painting below moves toward a more diffuse, mysterious atmosphere. It uses few colours and little drama, while retaining a play of calligraphic forms.

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4 responses to “Light in Arts – A Short Reflection on Illumination”

  1. swabby429 avatar

    The combination of frozen water and light is fascinating. From hoarfrost in trees to encrusted windows, the possibilities are endless.

    1. Zettl Friedrich avatar

      Thank you! Yes, many possibilities, but it seems easier than it is, especially if you want to implement the idea embedded in a personal concept of art. At least for me 🙂

  2. mic avatar

    👌👌👌🖼️ excellent

    1. Zettl Friedrich avatar

      Thank you very much! I am happy you like it!

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