Koi Bounded and Content

Oil Painting on reclaimed wood panel by Christian Hammer

In this painting, the artist Christian Hammer explores the idea of boundaries and contentment, using the metaphor of a koi fish living within the reclaimed wood panel. The koi’s acceptance of its limited space represents the idea that contentment can be found within any boundaries, and that true happiness comes from appreciating the present moment.

The koi’s peaceful posture further convey the idea of contentment and acceptance. The reclaimed wood panel, with its rough and textured surface, suggests the passage of time and history. The imperfections of the wood are celebrated, adding beauty and interest to the painting.

The koi seems to embody the spirit of the wood, finding beauty and meaning within its limits.

The wood was once part of a living tree, with its own journey from seedling to maturity. Then, it was harvested and used for a practical purpose. Finally, it was reclaimed and repurposed into a work of art.

Each stage of its existence has given it new meaning and value, and this adds depth and complexity to the painting.

The fact that this is the third painting on this panel adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the artwork. The previous paintings, though mostly erased, still leave their mark, like the shadows of past lives. They add depth and texture, both physically and metaphorically, giving the koi’s journey a sense of history and resonance.

It’s as if the koi is not only content in its present moment, but also accepting of the journey that led it there.

Original is sold, prints are available: $400

California Poppies

California Poppies Abstraction – Oil on canvas painting

The artist Christian Hammer was inspired by the wild poppies that grow on his farm, finding joy and gratitude in their unassuming yet vibrant beauty. The painting captures the ephemeral nature of the poppies, their brilliant colors set against the dark field. The artist’s careful attention to detail and precise brushwork are evident in this painting, despite its subject matter of wildflowers.

The dark blue background and abstracted elements contrast with the vibrancy of the poppies, giving the painting a dynamic and visually interesting composition. The contrast between the representational flowers and the more stylized background creates a sense of depth and movement, drawing the viewer’s eye into the scene.

The painting is a reminder to appreciate the simple and fleeting pleasures of life, and to find beauty in the everyday.

Original is sold, prints are available for purchase: $100

Koi Duo – Oil on Canvas 18″x24″ Painting

I’ve enjoyed painting Koi for some time, they are a fantastic creature to indulge composition studies with as they flow and interact with each other in their liquid medium. Koi are a topic I return to on regular basis. This was a simple study and an attempt to make a more abstract and graphical composition with the ripples and interaction of this pair.

Oyster Shooter /Crab Dinner Painting

Oyster Shooter /Crab Dinner – Oil on Wood Panel painting

The artist’s use of reclaimed wood adds an extra layer of meaning to this painting. The history of the wood, with its previous use and imperfections, brings a sense of life and character to the piece. It’s as if the wood itself has a story to tell, and the crab and oyster are part of that story.

The wood’s history and the crab’s sympathetic expression create a narrative that is more than just a still life. Overall, ‘Crab Dinner or Oyster Shooter’ is a whimsical and thought-provoking painting that captures a private moment in nature. The expressive crab, the use of color, and the reclaimed wood all come together to create a narrative that is both humorous and poignant. The painting reminds us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and to never take it for granted.

The Original is available for purchase: $1000