Title: Winter sea
Year Completed: 2024
Size: 29,7 cm x 40,5 cm
Technical: graphite pencils and oil pastels on paper

Description
Growing up by the sea you could see how different it is in the winter, without the summer crowd. You can be alone with your thoughts, and the breaking of the waves against the rocks allow the memories from the past to resurface. The place I represented is inspired by a spot on the coast of my hometown, that has a very special place in my heart. It has been theatre of my childhood and it's linked to special memories of the people who are not here anymore.


Critical text by Senior Art Curator Mara Cipriano

One of the strengths of De Pascalis' work lies in her ability to evoke a profound sense of emotional resonance. Serena De Pascalis' artistic journey, as conveyed through her piece, particularly the Winter sea illustration, provides a profound exploration of her roots and the deep connection she maintains with the natural elements of her native Puglia, in the south of Italy, Europe. The artist's sentiments toward the sea, stemming from her upbringing in close proximity to its shores, are eloquently expressed, offering a personal and nostalgic perspective. The Winter sea illustration serves as a visual anthem to the artist's childhood and the distinctive character of the sea during the colder months. De Pascalis captures the essence of solitude and introspection that accompanies the absence of the bustling summer crowds. The depiction of waves crashing against the rocks serves as a metaphor for the resurfacing of memories, reflecting the artist's contemplations on the past. The bond between the artist and the depicted landscape is tangible, allowing observers to immerse themselves in the nostalgia and sentiments tied to her hometown. The illustration becomes not merely a representation of a physical place but a means for the artist to revisit cherished memories and pay homage to those who are no longer present. The choice of a specific location on the coast of her hometown adds a layer of authenticity to the illustration. By grounding her work in a place that holds personal significance, De Pascalis invites observers to share in the emotional landscape she portrays. This aspect of her art creates a bridge between the personal and the universal, prompting reflection on the collective human experience of memory and the passage of time. In conclusion, Serena De Pascalis' Winter sea illustration serves as a poignant commencement to her artistic exploration undertaken in this year 2024.