Before flowing through the Valley of Breaking Waves

Artwork Interpretation

In terms of composition, the figure and the background form a “solid - void dialogue”: The figurative form of the figure intertwines with the abstract color streaks in the background. The vertical text on the left, like a mysterious footnote, expands the narrative dimension of the painting, making the visual focus travel between the figure and the background, creating a sense of spatial extension.

Color is the developer of emotions: Dominated by blue - purple tones, the gradient of blue hair, purple hat, and light - blue clothing is like the blending of waves receding. The collision of yellow - brown and blue - purple in the background is like the dappled light penetrating broken waves. The red bug, a jumping warm color block, activates the calmness of the overall cool tone, creating a temperature difference in emotions.

The painting style blends expressionist and surreal traits. The loose yet precise brushstrokes capture the expression. The abstract textures in the background are not random smears but the externalization of emotions — like the wind and light in the Valley of Broken Waves, rehearsing flow on the canvas. The figurativeness of the figure and the abstractness of the background jointly weave the spiritual moment of “gaze before moving forward”.

Emotions hide in detail folds: The focus of the figure holding cheeks is the yearning for the “Valley of Broken Waves”; the flowing colors in the background are the allure of the unknown; the intrusion of the bug is an unexpected surprise. The whole conveys positive exploration desire — before stepping into the unknown, gather courage with a gaze. The collisions of colors and forms are all preludes to a new journey.

It evokes Chagall’s dreamy realism, yet Before Flowing Through the Valley of Broken Waves is closer to youthful innocence. It also relates to Frida Kahlo’s exploration of self - gaze but strips away the narrative of suffering, focusing on anticipation and longing. Using specific figure postures and color layers, it transforms “the state of mind before moving forward” into a perceptible visual poem, telling viewers: Every journey into the unknown begins with such a gaze — in the interweaving of figurativeness and abstractness, see the coexistence of anticipation and courage. Art is precisely the container capturing this momentary light, keeping the state of mind “before flowing through the Valley of Broken Waves” forever vivid in colors and brushstrokes.

 Why are the character’s hands pressed tightly to the cheeks?

The gesture conveys a sense of childlike curiosity and astonishment, while also exaggerating the facial expression. This framing intensifies the psychological interaction between subject and viewer, like a captured freeze-frame moment.

What is the visual effect of the purple wide-brimmed hat and blue hair?

The pairing of purple and blue creates a dreamlike cool-toned atmosphere. In contrast with the warm tones of the face, this combination enhances the figure’s otherness and surreal quality.

How is this work positioned within contemporary portraiture?

It belongs to the realm of surrealist portrait oil painting, where expressive color tensions and exaggerated gestures detach the subject from everyday experience. For collectors of modern portrait art, it offers both personal emotional resonance and academic value in exhibitions.

What is the symbolic relationship between the cliff wall and the figure?

The cracks on the cliff resemble the silhouette of a profile, echoing the frontal face of the figure. This interplay suggests a dialogue and fusion between nature and the individual.

What are the suitable display contexts for this work?

With its bold colors and dramatic pose, Before the Valley of Broken Waves is ideal for personalized art spaces, contemporary galleries, or private collections. In such settings, it can serve as a powerful visual focal point.

What should I pay attention to when buying an artwork or its derivatives?

A: Click here to view ARTPHILOSO's Guide for Collectors.