Taking the Plunge (2026)

Taking the Plunge captures one of the simplest pleasures of life on the French Riviera—the moment right before letting go and diving into the Mediterranean Sea. The diver, caught in a fleeting moment of anticipation, evokes a sense of freedom, spontaneity and the carefree spirit of endless summers on the Côte d'Azur, in the South of France. Inspired by the famous Le Plongeoir landmark and the lesser-known local swimming spots around La Réserve and Coco Beach in Nice, this mixed-media painting is less about a specific place than the memories and emotions these locations evoke. Rich Mediterranean blues, a striped swimsuit and bold, simplified forms recall the effortless elegance of Riviera summers. With its striking composition and playful perspective, the artwork offers a fresh take on the timeless appeal of Mediterranean life. Combining acrylic, oil and hand-painted paper collage on canvas, Taking the Plunge brings together vibrant colour, graphic shapes and layered textures. A celebration of movement, escapism and the simple joy of being by the sea, the painting invites viewers to revisit their own sun-soaked memories of European summers, travel and adventure.