Cormoran 2018

Daria Theodora’s ‘Cormoran’ is a vibrant mix of colour and texture, likely rendered with inks or watercolours and maybe some gouache. I can imagine Daria bent over this work, patiently building up the layers, coaxing the figures of the birds and fish into being with each delicate stroke. Looking at this piece, I feel a kinship with the artist. I think about the decisions she must have made. Should the black feathers be more textured, or should the fish scales be brighter? It's a balancing act, right? The gold accents create a sense of depth, almost pulling you into the watery world she has created. The way the lines flow and intertwine reminds me of the work of Aubrey Beardsley. The image invites contemplation and evokes a sense of wonder. It reminds us that art is a conversation, a back-and-forth between artists across time, each building upon the ideas of those who came before, and I think Daria really understands that.