Later Gator
This piece began as a simple anatomical study of one of my favorite reptiles, the alligator, and evolved into a highly stylized scene abounding in color. By carefully limiting myself to a palette of light and dark colors that complement each other, I created a contrast between the murky turquoise of the water and the vibrant pinks above. The red falling leaves and bright impurities in the water form analogous structures within the composition. With the bulk of the gator’s body being hidden beneath the surface, there is a theme of “something unseen below.” This references the fact that bones are typically unseen beneath an animal’s skin, and create further contrast with the lively fish and plants.