Boy running along a grey/green watery beach with rusty industrial background — KEEP ON RUNNING, Mixed Media on canvas, 110 x 110 x 2 cm

Introduction:

In art, there is a wonderful interplay between contrasting elements, where disparate concepts merge into something captivating and thought-provoking. One such example is a mesmerizing mixed media painting that captures the essence of a boy running happily along the beach against an industrial background painted in rusty and green/gray tones. This juxtaposition of the purity of nature with the roughness of man-made structures invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between humanity and the environment, while evoking a sense of wonder and reflection.

The boy on the watery beach:

The central focus of this mixed media painting is a young boy in motion, running along the waterfront. db Waterman has skillfully rendered the boy's carefree spirit and joy through his dynamic pose and fluid brushstrokes. The green and gray tones dominate the painting and reflect a sense of calm and tranquility. The green tones symbolize growth, renewal and youth, while the gray tones evoke a dreamlike atmosphere and emphasize the ethereal quality of the scene.

The watery beach:

The watery beach, with its gentle waves and soft sand, serves as a backdrop for the boy's playful steps. db Waterman used several mixed media techniques to depict the movement of the water, using subtle brushstrokes and layers of translucent materials to create a sense of depth and flow. The composition captures the ever-changing nature of the shoreline, where the boy's footprints and retreating waves merge, emphasizing the impermanence of life.

The industrial rusty background:

In stark contrast to the serenity of the watery beach, the industrial background adds a touch of grit and realism to the painting. The rusty colors dominate this aspect, indicating the passage of time and the decay of man-made structures. By combining acrylic paint, metallic pigments and textured materials, the artist creates an atmosphere reminiscent of an abandoned industrial site. The confrontation of the boy's innocence and vibrancy with the desolation of the industrial environment prompts introspection on the relationship between man and the environment.

Symbolism and meaning:

This mixed painting speaks volumes through its symbolism, provoking introspection and raising questions about human impact on the environment. The boy's confrontation with the industrial background highlights the clash between the purity of nature and humanity's relentless pursuit of progress. It reminds us that while technological progress brings prosperity and comfort, it also leaves scars on the earth's surface and reminds us of the need for sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Moreover, the color palette adds depth to the story. The green and gray hues suggest a delicate balance between life and decay, with the boy's vitality acting as a cutoff.