Kristian Olsen Aaju’s Exquisite Oil Painting

Kristian Olsen aaju (1942-2015), known colloquially as aaju, was born in Arsuk in South Greenland. He spent much of his life living between Helsinki and the Danish island Sejerø, however Greenland remained a significant source of inspiration and reference for his art and writing throughout his life.

The artist was known to have his sketchbook to hand no matter where he went, energetically repeating variations of the same subject matter or techniques, until some would feature in the final paintings.

The distinctive use of bright colour and energetic brushwork can be seen in a number of works by the artist, who produced both abstract work such as this, as well as figurative paintings depicting birds, mountains, fjords and people.

In this oil on canvas, a flurry of deep blues cascade across layers of colour-washed paint, reminding us of the fluidity of water and submersion. Surrounding turquoise and aquamarine hues are reminiscent of the reflective qualities of light on water, and create a sense of illumination from above.