Green Island

A lush island in greenery, we see figures of stature relaxing by the water’s edge. Tropical temperatures scorch the horizon stretching over the water. An oasis of tranquility? Or rather a prison amidst surrounding emptiness? With minimal brushstrokes, Bobkin takes us to green hills, golden fields, and water made for swimming. As always, Bobkin’s unique use of space adds an extra dimension to the painting. On the surface, the scene is idyllic, yet the space on the island is scarce, almost suffocating. The tension created by this is characteristic of Bobkin’s oeuvre, familiar yet alienating, although the temptation to take a dip here is hard to resist.