Nagi (凪), calm. The moment when the wind dies down and the water becomes still. The movement does not suddenly disappear, but gradually softens, until light and depth meet at the surface. In this painting, I seek that calm. The blue outer surface and the green nuances in the center evoke a water surface that suggests more than it reveals.
The Color Palette
For this work, I chose a palette that connects water and earth: blue and teal as enveloping colors, with muted olive green, gray-green, and warm gray tones in the elongated color field. Not all nuances are immediately visible, but they live within the work. The soft vertical transitions allow the colors to slowly flow into one another, like reflections in water where the wind barely has a hold on it anymore.
Technique & Material
Painted with acrylic paint on panel, built up layer by layer. The surface has a subtle texture that looks different in changing light. The tight composition with the elongated color field is inspired by the Japanese aesthetic of ma, the power of empty space that envelops everything. The blue outer surface gives the subdued nuances in the center space to come into their own.
A floating effect on the wall
For these paintings, I have developed my own hanging system. The 3 cm wooden block on the back keeps the panel straight and parallel to the wall, with space between the painting and the wall. This makes the work appear to float and creates a spatial 3D effect.
The back is also part of the work: I have painted it Prussian blue. In combination with the distance from the wall, this creates a deep, dark shadow effect that gives the painting extra dimension. Not only the painted front, but also the space behind it contributes to the experience of the work.
Specifications
Size: 40 × 20.5 cm
Material: Acrylic paint on panel
Hanging system: Own design with a 3 cm wooden spacer
Back: Painted in Prussian blue
Unique original: Hand-signed by Jordy Koumans
Delivery & Collection
This work is available in two ways:
Collection in Tilburg: personal collection in my studio in Carré, Tilburg.
Shipping: carefully packed and insured, worldwide.
Includes certificate of authenticity.
