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April 5, 2026

Who is the Master?

A large-scale (130x180 cm) contemporary figurative painting titled "FLOWER SHOWER" by Claus Bertermann, featuring a French Bulldog on a throne and an adoring human subject amidst vibrant neon flowers.
Royalty in the Garden of Devotion A Whimsical Power Dynamic In the heart of every dog lover’s home, there is a silent understanding: we are not the masters; we are the devoted subjects. My latest large-scale work, "FLOWER SHOWER" (130 x 180 cm), captures this exact sentiment with a touch of irony and a lot of color. Set against a swirling storm of neon blossoms, a regal French Bulldog sits enthroned, receiving the ultimate tribute from a bowing human figure. The Artistic Process: Movement and Texture Creating a piece of this magnitude requires a physically engaged process. To achieve the deep, atmospheric blue and violet background, I moved away from traditional brushes and used a paint roller. This technique allows for broad, rhythmic arm movements that reflect the energy of the "flower storm" itself. The figures and the vibrant flora were then drawn directly onto this textured ground using oil crayons. This separation between the raw, roller-painted acrylic and the intuitive, waxy lines of the crayon creates a unique signature style—a tension between structural chaos and figurative vulnerability that defines my current work in the contemporary European art scene. The Mystery: What is the Frenchie Thinking? I often get asked about the narrative behind the gaze. Is the Frenchie acknowledging the human’s devotion with noble, silent grace? Or is he simply a pragmatic sovereign, wondering when the next treat will arrive? This playful ambiguity is what makes the bond between humans and their four-legged masters so divine. From the Retiro to the Studio Whether you are strolling through the historic Retiro Park in Madrid or exploring the hidden art districts of Berlin or Paris, the sight of a proud Frenchie is universal. "FLOWER SHOWER" bridges the gap between the everyday walk in the park and the grand traditions of royal portraiture. It is a celebration of presence, loyalty, and the colorful joy that pets bring into our "internal landscapes." Why This Piece Matters for Collectors Executed in 2026, this one-of-a-kind original represents a mature example of my exploration into modern figurative painting. The contrast between the industrial application of the acrylic and the fragile, human touch of the oil crayon makes it a visually compelling statement for any modern collection. It is a work that doesn't just hang on a wall; it commands the room with its vibrant energy and relatable soul.
Who is the Master? | Claus Bertermann Journal