Ethereal Uyuni

Ethereal Uyuni (An Abstract Exploration of Bolivia’s Salt Flats)

2023

Oil paint, pigment and mediums on canvas

Size: 50 x 70 x 4 cm

Framed: 54.5 x 74.5 x 6 cm (handmade)

Imagine standing on an endless expanse of blindingly white salt, so flat it seems to curve with the earth. Above, the sky mirrors the ground below, creating an illusion of infinite space. That is the surreal beauty of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats, the inspiration behind “Ethereal Uyuni.”

Using a cool palette of blues and silvers, I’ve sought to evoke the serene, dreamlike quality of the salt flats. Layers of oil paint, pigments, and mediums build a rich, textured surface that invites you to trace the contours of the landscape with your eyes. The dense central area represents the salt crust, its textures echoing the crystalline formations underfoot. The lighter edges suggest the boundless expanse of the flats, disappearing into the horizon. The shimmering silver background, like a pool of liquid metal, mirrors the reflective surface of the Uyuni during the rainy season.

My travels in Bolivia were unforgettable. The stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people left a lasting impression. The Uyuni Salt Flats, in particular, stood out as a truly awe-inspiring location. The seemingly endless expanse of salt, the meditative atmosphere, and the perfect reflection of the sky are sights that will forever be with me.

“Ethereal Uyuni” is my attempt to share the wonder and tranquillity I felt in that extraordinary place. It’s a testament to the power of nature to inspire and, hopefully, the ability of art to capture the essence of a place and time. If you haven’t already done so, I highly recommend experiencing the Uyuni Salt Flats for yourself one day. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy “Ethereal Uyuni.”50