Pegasis

Pegasis is one of the Greek Naiads, the spirits who inhabit springs, wells, and streams. In this interpretation, she is presented as the very life force of the water—young, vibrant, and immediate. Her smile is inviting and secretive, and her gaze is direct and intense, as if she has just risen from the depths to meet the viewer. She represents the pure, unspoiled joy found in the water and the allure of nature.

The painting is a naturalistic portrait that captures a fleeting moment in the water. The square format creates a concentrated and intimate feeling.

Light and Color: The artist’s skilled handling of light is the most prominent element. A strong, golden light falls diagonally from above, likely from a low sun, highlighting Pegasis’s facial features. The light reflects off her wet hair and creates small, pearlescent highlights on her skin, giving the illusion of moisture and movement. The water, painted in muted green, brown, and gray tones, envelops the figure and creates a strong contrast against the warm light on her upper body.

Composition and Feeling: The viewer sees the Naiad in a close-up shot, immersed up to the chest in the water. Her upward and outward gaze establishes a strong connection. The work balances mythological romance with modern, photorealistic precision, making Pegasis both an immortal goddess and a tangible presence. It is a tribute to the fluid element and the natural force that the Greek Naiads embody.