World Inspired Landscapes: Palau

Palau is a small nation of islands in Micronesia, south Pacific ocean. Like many nations in the region, it was populated by seafaring indigenous people from Indonesia or thereabouts, many thousands of years ago. Due to its remoteness, the main colonial interests were related to military naval and air presence, as well as its use as a trading port. Some commodities like sugar cane could be grown, and there were plenty of fish in the sea. Palau become the hub for several colonial forces including Spanish, German, Japanese, United States and finally independence in the late 20th century. Most of their population are still indigenous Palauan who speak the language Palauan, with the second language English. Another common problem facing ocean nations is the steadily rising seawater which will submerge part or all of the lowest lying islands in a matter of decades. These nations are aware of the problem and actively planning for a solution, which may in some cases have to involve relocation to a mainland. 

The painting was not intended to reflect the problem of rising seawater although it could be interpreted as such. I was trying to capture the flow of water using ribbons of colours, finished with a quick layer of clean water to give it a smooth effect. Wet-in-wet technique was used to make the background seem to be shrouded in mist. 

World Inspired Landscapes: Palau, watercolour 8 x 10" cold press, July 2024