Meet "Marlina" — A Stunning Black Marlin Oil Painting by Amanda Johnson
Meet "Marlina" — A Stunning Black Marlin Oil Painting by Amanda Johnson
I’m thrilled to introduce "Marlina," my latest oil painting inspired by the incredible beauty and strength of the black marlin. Painted live during Boat Race Week 2024 at 0 Duval and completed in my studio, Marlina captures the drama of the ocean and the majestic presence of one of its most powerful inhabitants. With every brushstroke, I aimed to bring to life the vibrant seascapes of Northern Australia and the awe-inspiring power of the sea.
👉 Check out the process in this Instagram reel!
The black marlin is not just a stunning creature; it’s a symbol of the ocean’s raw power. Did you know that all black marlins over 300 lbs are females—hence her name, Marlina? These magnificent fish make their way to the Great Barrier Reef to spawn, where females lay eggs and smaller males fertilize them, continuing the cycle of life in the deep blue.
This scene captures a 900 lb black marlin just outside the Great Barrier Reef near Lizard Island. The whitecaps in the background represent waves crashing on the reef, while the vibrant turquoise green water hints at the shallows. Beyond the reef, the ocean floor drops off dramatically, shifting to a deep, mysterious blue that adds a sense of depth and adventure to the painting.
In the distance, you can spot Lizard Island, where Captain Cook famously climbed to "Cook’s Look"—a vantage point he used to navigate the intricate reef system. This historical connection adds a layer of depth to Marlina’s story, blending nature’s beauty with the spirit of exploration and discovery. Every detail in this painting, from the swirling currents to the soft hues of the setting sun, is meant to transport you to that very moment when the sea’s power is on full display.
Fun Fact: This marlin was caught using @alohalureshawaii #smashbait, which perfectly captures the adrenaline and awe of ocean fishing. It’s not just about the catch; it’s about the thrill of the chase, the dance between predator and prey, and the sheer beauty of these incredible creatures. Once Marlina was brought to the boat, she was safely released to continue her life journey.
Marlina brings all those elements together: the drama of the sea, the beauty of the reef, and the early sunset colors lighting up the horizon.
With a canvas size of 40 x 50 inches, Marlina is a statement piece that demands attention. The rich, textured layers of oil paint bring out the marlin's iridescent scales and the sunlit waves, creating a sense of motion and life. The use of bold strokes and vibrant hues captures the essence of the ocean, making Marlina not just a painting but an experience—a moment frozen in time where the sea’s power and grace are undeniable.
If you enjoy celebrating the ocean’s power and beauty, stop by the gallery to experience this masterpiece and others like it up close. Discover more of my tropical and ocean-inspired art. Let the vibrant colors and dramatic seascapes transport you to the heart of the ocean, where each wave tells a story and every sunset holds a promise.
📍 In Key West? Visit Amanda Johnson Gallery at 518 Fleming, by Fausto’s, just one block off of Duval Street!
You can view more ocean-inspired art here on my website!
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