With such a big water theme going on in my paintings this year, you will probably not be at all surprised to see that I have been drawn to create a painting with mermaids. This time, the theme is the undines.
Undines are a type of water nymphs that are very similar looking to mermaids, but are much smaller than their sea-dwelling cousins and have quite a different countenance. They tend to seek out waterfalls and forest pools which are natural portals to other realms and have beautiful singing voices.
Undine males are significantly larger than females. Undines can shapeshift to live on land for short periods too. They are said to have healing powers and their tears gift fertility. They can mimic the sound of water and swim extremely fast. They have beautiful scales and tails and slightly webbed fingers. Their body is made of water but they give the illusion of flesh. They feed on water.
Undines are found in mythology throughout Europe and China and are said to live in miniature underwater cities. They have inspired ballets and writers throughout time.
The inspiration for this piece came from the nature reserve close to my home where there are little waterfalls overhung by the trees and my love of aquatic life - particularly in rivers and streams.
'Summer Undine Mermaids in a Woodland Stream' is a 30 x 30 x 1.5 cm original oil painting with painted wraparound edges. It is available as a original oil painting, limited edition giclée print and greeting card. Merchandise featuring this painting will follow in a few weeks.
Comentários