Final Draft
Alexis Vanja Tirtaputra
Yemoja and the Dream of Monet’s Water Lilies
Wole Lagunju’s ‘Yemoja and the Dream of Monet’s Water Lilies’ depicts a woman
wearing an intricate mask and a striking patterned blouse against a calming background of cool
colored water lilies and other aquatic wildlife. The artwork itself is presented in a
two-dimensional format, as it is created with oil paint on canvas as a medium. This formal
analysis aims to delve and better understand the intricate details of this work of art by exploring
its use of form, color, and other formal qualities. By doing so, viewers of Lagunju’s creation will
be able to appreciate the aesthetic depth and visual mastery of this captivating piece.
The shapes and form are formed by intricately rendered strokes that display a great
amount of detailing and meticulousness. The central figure is naturalistic and rendered with
graceful and well-defined contours, which sets her as a tangible presence that is separate from
the surrealist backdrop of water lilies and wildlife. The soft curves of her figure and intricate
drapery and folds of her clothing further emphasize her gracefulness, while the arm on her hip
breaks the symmetry and adds a sense of dynamism and boldness. The water lilies and
surrounding elements are treated with the same level of care, albeit with a different approach.
The background elements are more abstracted and blocked out, like Lagunju only wants to subtly
and vaguely indicate the form. This acts in opposition to the naturalistic and more objectively
realistic visual language that makes up the figure. However, the form of each leaf, petal, or bird
is graceful, fluid, and flowing just like the figure, and the variety of visual language used within
the painting creates interest and clarity for the viewer.
Lagunju’s clever and deliberate use of juxtaposition within the color palette creates a
sense of playfulness and vitality that is both bold and pleasing to the eye. Rich hues of blues,
purples, and cream dominate the canvas, making up the surreal background behind the figure.
This cool and analogous color palette creates a sense of serenity and peacefulness, and the
slightly warmer tone of cream that is present in the lilypads, mask, and headdress acts as a bridge
between the cool, muted background and the mostly vibrant and warm colors of the figure. The
bright and striking golds, browns, and oranges are harmonious with each other, but clash
beautifully with the cool and desaturated background. It is this clash and contrast that creates the
most eye-catching interplay, creating a tension that invites the viewer’s gaze. The area with the
most intense contrast is the midsection of the figure, where the visual impact of the brightest and
most saturated yellow paired with a deep, rich black commands immediate attention from the
viewer, showing the artist’s mastery and knowledge of using color in order to emphasize certain
elements.
The artist’s ingenious use of lines adds depth and visual intrigue to the overall
composition. The soft, undulating curves of the organic wildlife juxtaposed with the sharp and
geometric lines of the pattern on the fabric creates such a dynamic and lively impression. Despite
the crispness of the geometric pattern, it does not feel stiff or out of place among the sinuous and
naturalistic linework of the surrounding elements. This is due to the lifelike and natural way the
garment folds and creases on itself, thus distorting and warping the geometric pattern into
twisted and curved forms. This variety and range of lines and curves work contribute to a sense
of both visual and emotional rhythm and movement, enriching the overall formal qualities of the
artwork.
The composition is thoughtfully organized, showcasing Lagunju’s skill in placing and
harmonizing visual elements. The figure’s placement in the center immediately directs the
viewer’s eye and attention to her. Her commanding presence is also supported by the form, visual
language, and color choice, all of which employ the clever usage of contrast in order to create a
sense of visual significance for the viewer. The artist’s command over positive and negative
space is also very strong, as the numerous water lilies and organic elements in the background
strike a pleasing balance without appearing too sparse or visually congested. The clusters are
arranged with intent, and any large negative spaces are broken up subtly through the use of water
lily stalks. These stalks also serve as leading lines, as they are parallel to each other and the
figure, creating structure and highlighting the figure as the primary point of interest.
A highlight of this painting is brushwork and texture, which work harmoniously together
with the other formal aspects of the artwork. Following the pattern of contrasting the figure and
the background elements, there is a distinct difference between the brush strokes and texture that
compose the two. The background elements like the water lilies and the negative space that
weaves between them have a dimensional depth to them, reminiscent of Monet’s textural and
visible brush strokes. The layered and thick paint creates facets and crevices that create a 3D feel
to the otherwise flat canvas. In contrast, the figure has a smooth and matte feel to it. The edges
between light and shadow are blended and diffused, and though there are areas with a more
pronounced texture, it does not seem intentional. The overall effect achieved is a tactile and
sensory one, which adds a dimensionality to the viewer’s experience.
In conclusion, ‘Yemoja and the Dream of Monet’s Water Lilies’ employs all formal
qualities in a masterful and thoughtful manner. Every element works together harmoniously to
create a visual experience for the viewer. Most notably, Lagunju’s clever usage of contrast in all
manner of formal qualities has allowed him to create an effortlessly visually readable artwork
without compromising detail and complexity. From precise forms to rich colors to expressive
brushwork, Lagunju uses each and every aspect of the painting to direct the viewer’s eye,
inviting the viewers to immerse themselves into the intricate realm within the canvas.