Christian Halna du Fretay’s Just Before Nightfall showcases his distinctive technique, blending acrylic and pencil on Arches paper, later mounted on Shikishi. His mastery of layering and texture creates a dynamic interplay between color, movement, and form, capturing the fleeting moment before night sets in.
Dominated by deep blues, the painting suggests the transition from day to night, evoking both mystery and tranquility. Within the fluid brushstrokes, silhouetted birds emerge, their dark forms subtly integrated into the landscape. Earthy ochres, greens, and reds contrast against the cool tones, adding warmth and grounding the composition. The textured surface, a hallmark of du Fretay’s work, enhances the painting’s depth, giving it an almost sculptural presence.
A key aspect of du Fretay’s artistic approach is his sensitive balance between abstraction and precision. The birds are neither fully defined nor completely obscured, inviting viewers to engage with the scene on an emotional and interpretative level. This tension between form and dissolution mirrors the essence of twilight—where visibility fades, and imagination takes over.
Through gestural abstraction and intricate details, du Fretay transforms simple materials into a compelling narrative of light, movement, and atmosphere. The use of Shikishi mounting, a traditional Japanese art format, adds an additional layer of elegance, enhancing the painting’s tactile quality.
As a contemporary artist, Christian Halna du Fretay continues to explore the interplay between structure and spontaneity, making his works highly sought-after in the world of modern abstract art. Just Before Nightfall exemplifies his ability to create evocative, textured compositions that resonate with depth and emotion.
For collectors and art enthusiasts looking to buy Christian Halna du Fretay artworks, his pieces offer a unique blend of technique, movement, and expressive storytelling.
"Just Before Nighfall" - Shikishi contemporary artwork
Original one-of-a-kind artwork by Christian Halna du Fretay.
Collage, acrylique, pencil on Arches heavy paper mounted on a traditional Shikishi made in Kyoto - Japanese paper mounted on a cardoard with a golden border of metallic paper.
Size of the Shikishi : 24cm x 27cm (9.4 x 10.6 inches)
Signed "Du Fretay".
