5/14/2026

Atlantic Puffins (Fratercula Arctica)

This painting is called “Fortress Of Solitude”, and was inspired by the Man of Steel’s secret sanctuary.

There are times when you just want to get away. Leave behind all the noise and busyness of everyday life and go somewhere quiet and peaceful. Or maybe the endless stream of thoughts in your head has become so overwhelming that you need to rediscover your inner stillness. Either way, if you seek a break from it all, this painting’s for you. Even Superman took his occasional time-out, maybe we should allow ourselves the same grace.

We live in a busy world. Situations, people, and responsibilities pull at us from every direction. Sometimes, it can feel impossible to manage. If we do not consciously direct our attention, we risk losing ourselves in the world around us. The mental noise in our head can also be extremely exhausting. Every thought that arises seems to whisper: “Give me more of your attention, follow me to where I want you to go”. When we are not aware of this process, thoughts can have an enormous pulling power, causing us to identify with them.

Luckily, we are not our thoughts. Mental chatter, emotions, and personal narratives don’t define who you are. The little puffin in this painting has made a conscious decision to leave behind his source of suffering, the crowded cliff. He doesn't want to be at the mercy of his external distractions and thoughts anymore. 

Finding your own Fortress Of Solitude is not always a quick or easy fix though. The ego is powerful and will put up a fight when it feels threatened or when you’re attempting to break free from old patterns. When you first sit in stillness you may encounter boredom, annoyance, or anxiety rather than immediate peace.The important thing is to anchor yourself in the present moment. Don’t dwell on the past and don’t worry about the future. The perfect moment is this one.

Personally, I’ve always been more of an introvert, feeling perfectly comfortable in my own quiet space. I have no problem spending long periods of time in solitude. Behind the easel, the distractions of daily life fall away and I can create from presence and stillness. I am still thinking of course, but my mind is no longer dominated by ego-driven thoughts such as “What if no one wants to buy this painting”, or “If this isn’t a masterpiece I’m a failure”. Instead of feeding those useless thoughts, I try to move beyond the egoic narrative and reconnect with something deeper. 

Going to your Fortress Of Solitude is not about escaping life, shutting down, or avoiding responsibilities. It’s about entering a conscious state of present awareness. Think of it not as an outward journey to some mythical destination far away, but rather as coming home to yourself, and reconnecting with what is essential within you.

FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE

40 x 80 cm. (15.7" x 31.5")

Available - email: robert@nitiredjo.com