Lights of an evening – Axelle Ardurat

Analysis of the work Lights of an Evening

Measuring (57 x 76 cm), Axelle Ardurat 's watercolor is a striking representation of the mysterious calm that reigns over the Arcachon basin during the rising tide. Through subtle tones of gray, blue and purple, Axelle manages to capture a moment of serene and melancholy beauty, where the sky and the water merge, amplifying the impression of absolute tranquility.

The use of the wet-on-wet technique, which is the artist's signature, adds a particular softness to the transitions between the shades of the work. This gives the work a fluidity, a lightness which perfectly reflects the changing nature of the Arcachon basin. The water, calm and smooth, becomes a subtle mirror of the cloudy sky, while the few boats and stakes that dot the horizon introduce delicate graphic elements that reinforce the perspective.

The reflections in the water are very softly precise and demonstrate a fine understanding of evening light. The moment captured is that of a calm twilight, bathed in discreet light. This subtle, fading light evokes an atmosphere of the end of the world which calls for reflection.

The absence of overly marked details on the boats and the background contributes to a dreamlike effect, where everything seems suspended in time. The silhouettes of the boats are delicately sketched, letting the viewer's imagination fill in the details, while soaking up the soothing atmosphere that the work exudes.

Lights of an Evening is an ode to nature and its subtle changes. It immerses us in a sort of visual meditation, inviting the viewer to observe the soothing calm of this maritime scene. Through this work, Axelle Ardurat once again demonstrates her mastery of the medium and her ability to translate natural atmospheres with palpable emotion.