This digital painting shows a peaceful lane flanked by stately willows, their foliage gently rustling in the light of a summer day. The winding path invites one to walk and pause to contemplate the tranquillity and simplicity of the landscape. The rhythmic repetition of the trees and the play of light and shadow on the ground create an almost meditative atmosphere, where time and space seem to slow down.
I created this work using digital painting techniques based on a photograph taken by myself. Painting over one's own image creates a unique combination of reality and interpretation: reality is the starting point, but colour, texture and atmosphere are enhanced and reshaped. Thus, this willow drive is not only a representation of a place I visited, but also a personal imagination of the silence, beauty and security I experienced there.
Geert Van Baelen has been working as a press photographer in Belgium for over 20 years. Besides current affairs, he also finds inspiration for his images in everyday life, landscapes and people... Read more…