Landscape

THE LOCKDOWN LANDSCAPES

This series of landscapes was created as a result of the many walks I took during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. In the woods, surrounded by the beautiful nature of The Hague forest and surroundings, I was inspired to create this series in watercolor, mixed media and oil paint. I noticed that the music on my headphones resonated with the landscape and gave me a "wow" moment each time. I took many photos and videos that gave me ideas.
Ultimately, the beautiful phrase "There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in" from Leonard Cohen's song "Anthem" led to a rather literal translation of this theme in terms of sunlight falling through the trees and giving nature its magic. The forests as a metaphor for freedom, hope and also comfort in these bizarre times. The project gained extra luster when friend pianist Mike Garson www.mikgarson.com (David Bowie's piano man) was impressed by my project and sent me his version of a Prelude by Chopin as a surprise. I was allowed to use it for under my video which can be seen below. Mike later commented:" I improvised on a beautiful Chopin prelude and felt it matched the aesthetics of this calming video especially in these stressful times."

For info and/or sale of these works you can contact me via my contact page or ask Ofran, the owner of winebar “THE PHILOSOPHER”. My work is permanently on display there! Visit their brand new website here

By the way, the paintings can also be purchased with spread payment. Also make an appointment about this by filling out the contact form with your request.

Mike Garson, mixed media, 43 x 30 cm, 2020

Since the soundscapes and ambient music of Robert Fripp and Brian Eno in particular are an important one for me while painting my landscapes, I asked Robert Fripp (King Crimson, David Bowie, David Sylvian) what his main source of inspiration was.