Neptune 1990

Boris Vallejo imagined this dreamy oil painting of Neptune in 1990, layering shades of blue and turquoise, with subtle highlights that create depth and movement within the underwater scene. I wonder what it was like for Vallejo to create this vision. Did he feel as though he had been submerged underwater? It must have been an intensely immersive process, building layer upon layer to create a sense of the ocean’s cool embrace. Look at the textural contrast between Neptune’s rippling hair and the smooth, almost slick, appearance of his scales. It’s not just about what is depicted, but about how the paint is applied to make it come alive. Then there’s the way the spear pierces through the water, creating this dynamic focal point. Vallejo is working with techniques that other painters explore, such as light, depth, colour, and composition. He brings his own experience to the conversation, and shares what he feels it means to be human.