Intention Note: “Fog Horn”
This painting was born from a fascination with the quiet power of the Alpine ibex, a creature whose robust silhouette stands out with singular strength in the most austere environments. My intention was to capture that moment when the animal seems to merge with the mountain, a presence both tangible and almost evanescent in the veil of mist.
The composition revolves around the central figure of the ibex, whose imposing horns and attentive posture immediately captivate the eye. I sought to convey the rough texture of its coat, contrasting with the immaterial softness of the mist that partially envelops it. This mist is not just a background; it actively participates in the atmosphere of the work, creating a sense of depth and mystery, while focusing attention on the animal.
The chosen tones, dominated by ranges of grays, whites, and muted browns, aim to evoke the coldness and minerality of the Alpine landscape in winter. The light, subtly diffused, models the forms and emphasizes the ibex’s sculptural presence, lending it an aura of serenity and contained strength. The only bright spot in the middle of the painting is its orange eye.
I carefully orchestrated the planes. In the foreground, touches of winter vegetation timidly emerge from the snow, anchoring the scene in a tangible reality. Then, the gaze rises towards the ibex, whose fur, rendered with meticulous attention to detail, contrasts with the evanescent softness of the mist surrounding it. In the background, rocky masses are hinted at, ghostly forms sculpted by time and the elements, adding depth and a silent texture to the whole.
Through this portrait, I wanted to pay homage to the resilience and wild beauty of this emblematic animal. It is an attempt to capture a moment of contemplation, where nature reveals itself in its grandeur and fragility. My hope is that this image can evoke in the viewer an emotional connection with the natural world and an appreciation for the discreet majesty of the Alpine ibex in its habitat.
