Killing of Pilot Whales (1944), Sámal Joensen-Mikines
Oil on canvas, 170 x 200 cm.
This subject has almost become synonymous with the art of Mikines. We are looking at an old Faroese tradition, but in the first pictures from the 1940s you may see a reflection of the Battle of the Atlantic in WWII.
The diagonals of the spears bring order into the dynamic scenery. It reminds you of a relief and inspiration has also been provided by Classic European art (Uccelo Delacroix).
The drama is enhanced by the dark silhouettes against the shining sun and the bloodred sea which also give a cosmic dimension to the scenery.
Sámal Joensen-Mikines
(1906-79)