Veronica Vilsan has had a long list of careers throughout her life, but art has been a part since the beginning. She has always held a love for art, but did not pursue art based education until later in life. This initially self taught, then classically trained artist produces some of the most inspired pieces and the painting Aurora is just one example of her masterful skills. Aurora is a stunning play on light and a view of the Aurora Borealis that many do not get to see.
Images of the Aurora Borealis are not new. Gifted artists have been painting this awe inspiring image for generations. However, most of these paintings showcase a spectrum of colour. In Aurora Veronica Vilsan chooses to focus the viewer’s attention on the emerald hue of this natural phenomenon. The colour of the Aurora Borealis is dependent upon atmospheric conditions. For it to appear green, as in this image, oxygen has to be stuck at 150 miles and below in altitude, so a predominately green hue is a reality depending on the altitude of the element.
The mountain scape image in Aurora showcases the dance of light playing on the mountains of the northern region of the world. The natural tones in the mountains set them apart beautifully from the clean light lines of the Aurora Borealis above them. As you continue to look at Aurora, the light seems to dance across the sky. This form of movement can be among the most difficult aspects of art an artist can encounter, but Veronica Vilsan does it so well.
When peering deeper into the image, we see Veronica did not neglect to include the stars within the light soaked image. These seemingly insignificant touches are what sets a true artist apart from others. Veronica Vilsan knows this subject intimately and we can feel her love for Aurora in every aspect of the painting.
Naturally, as a world traveler, you have seen the Aurora Borealis in person, correct? What region did you paint this image from?
Even though I’ve traveled a lot and been to Norway many times, I haven’t got the chance to see the Aurora Borealis in person.
How did you layer this painting? What did you paint first and what part made you finally say, Aurora is complete?
The technique I use on this painting is called “wet on wet”, and I first saw it on Bob Ross’ teachings. First, I texture the canvas on the region where my mountains are located. After it was completely dry, I painted in black. Later, I apply a layer
of dry fast medium so my oils will dry faster, and on top of it I apply the green and other colors. From there, I started creating the shapes of the Aurora first.
I call it complete when I get the feeling that it is complete. Always listen to my intuition which is linked to the heart.
Where do you see Aurora finding a home? What setting do you believe the piece would be most suited for?
“Aurora” will find the best home in the arms of the warm hearted person who experiences love at first sight when he/she sees the painting. The Best home design for this piece will be a peaceful, cozy and warm space with natural and neutral tones and accents.
Aurora has a very calming view. How did you feel when painting this piece and how do you want the viewer to feel when looking at it?
Yes, it has the silent and calming feeling and I hope the viewer captures that and a lot more. I have been practicing morning and evening meditation for some time now, and I always start creating my paintings with a feeling of joy, harmony and peace.
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