Second Critique

"Devotion"

By: Eric Renk

more about Eric Renk:

http://www.ericrenkwildlifeart.com/

Eric Renk is a self taught artist who has been painting wildlife for over 30 years. This limited edition image simply entitled "Devotion" is a prominent example of his intricate works, as well as a symbolic visual of the word devotion itself. The painting uses an oil medium, with a composition of realism consisting of two wolves nestled together by the moonlight. The proportions of both wolves against one another, with one being just slightly larger to show which is the dominant male, renders the idea of the female relying upon her mate to protect her. The hue of the moonlight creates a comforting atmosphere, and a passionate harmony between the creatures and their environment.

It is said that when wolves mate, they maintain the same partner for their entire lives. The perspective in which these wolves are shown allows the viewer to detect the sensitive nature of their feelings towards one another by the gentle glow of the moon. This aesthetic image depicts the concept of devotion in such a way that the viewer cannot help but feel touched. The allusion of fidelity indicated by both creatures' expressions creates figurative thoughts in their heads as if to say "I will never leave your side." There is no need for any abstract figures or meanings, because the simplicity of knowing that these two wolves will spend the rest of their lives loyal to each other is just one of the great forms of personal devotion to another.