Inner Space / The Humpbacks of Maui
Limited Edition Print / Lithograph on paper • Robert Wyland (commonly known as Wyland)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Environmental Art / Marine Life Realism
Medium & Technique
Color lithography/offset lithograph print. The technique involves high-detail commercial printing to replicate the artist's original airbrushing and acrylic style, characterized by soft gradients and realistic marine detailing.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, likely late 1980s or 1990s.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 30 x 30 inches (framed). The artwork is a circular 'tondo' format set within a square frame with a custom mat.
Subject Description
A split-level (over-under) composition featuring a pair of Humpback whales in a gentle embrace beneath the ocean surface. Above the water, a night scene shows a large moon reflecting over a mountainous shoreline. The foreground is a dense, Detailed coral reef populated with tropical fish, emphasizing the biodiversity of the Hawaiian ecosystem.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The print appears well-preserved under glass; however, there is significant glare on the protective glazing, making it difficult to assess fine archival details.
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200 (Highly dependent on whether the signature is hand-signed or plate-signed and the edition number).
Auction Estimate
$300 - $700
Provenance History
Likely purchased from a Wyland Gallery (Hawaii, California, or Florida). Features a printed signature and a dedicated plaque/area at the bottom suggesting it is part of a numbered series common in commercial galleries.
Art Historical Significance
Wyland is a central figure in the environmental art movement, known for his 'Whaling Walls' and his role in popularizing marine conservation through commercial art in the late 20th century.
Notable Features
Features the iconic Wyland signature plate at the bottom. The tondo format provides a 'porthole' effect that enhances the oceanic theme.
Condition Issues
Potential light fading if exposed to UV rays; minor dust accumulation on frame. No visible foxing or water damage from the provided image.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is behind UV-protective glass (conservation clear) to prevent color fading of the blues and purples. Avoid hanging in direct sunlight or high-humidity areas like bathrooms.