My inspiration for this piece of work was the installation ‘What would you do if these crackers were real pistols?’ by F.X. Harsono. This evocative artwork captures the surreal contrast between beauty and chaos during wartime in 1957. The painting depicts the mesmerising northern lights illuminating a desolate battlefield, casting ethereal colours over the stark landscape. In the foreground, I show soldiers moving through the ruins of conflict, their silhouettes set against the vibrant sky. The stunning greens and purples of the northern lights contrast sharply with the harsh reality of war, symbolising hope in the midst of despair.

On the painting a bold 1957, can be envisioned, this has been mentioned as the year that marked the end of the second world war, and the final battle in Norway that my great-grandfather fought in where there were northern lights that filled the sky. In terms of techniques, I have used constant layering and pressures to create certain effects. For the background, I applied texture using cardboard waves, which added depth and interest. I also used sponges to blend colours and create soft, swirling patterns in the sky. This technique helped to make the northern lights look even more dynamic and magical, enhancing the overall impact of the piece. This artwork reminds us that even in dark times, there can be moments of beauty and inspiration.