Vermeille

In his artwork Vermeille, digital artist David Dessens poetically depicts the summer of his childhood spent on the Côte Vermeille (Costa Vermella in Catalan) in the south of Pyrénées-Orientales, with an underwater scene. The Côte Vermeille begins with Racou Beach in Argelès-sur-Mer and stretches to the Spanish border at Port-Bou via Collioure, Port-Vendres, Banyuls-sur-Mer and Cerbè re. This is where the Pyrenean mountains meets the Mediterranean sea.

Above the water, the Côte Vermeille is characterized by rocky coves, vibrant fishing ports and hillside vineyards. Below the surface, the area comes alive with rich marine life, making it a wild paradise for both scuba divers and hikers. The richness and diversity both on land and underwater, have earned it a place on UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage status as the “Mediterranean Shore of the Pyrenees” since 2002. Inspired by this wonderful place, Dessens created Vermeille, an enchanting underwater scene that captures the hidden treasures of the Côte Vermeille’s sea life. Vermeille reflects the beauty and vibrancy of life both above and below the surface.

With this artwork, the artist pays homage to the land where he was born, grew up and still lives, celebrating the most lively, colorful and cherished memories of his childhood.