nature #181 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The drawing presents a close-up view of a small mammal, likely a squirrel, rendered in a style that emphasizes texture and fleeting observation. The animal is positioned in profile, its head turned slightly towards the viewer, creating a sense of immediacy and engagement. A dominant feature is the profusion of fur, depicted with short, energetic strokes that convey both volume and movement. The artist has employed a limited palette primarily consisting of warm browns and ochres, punctuated by subtle washes of green and yellow in the background.
The rendering of the animal’s face suggests an intense focus on its immediate activity; the mouth is slightly open, hinting at chewing or vocalization, while the eyes appear small and alert. The artist has captured a moment of natural behavior rather than presenting a formal portrait.
The background is deliberately indistinct, serving to isolate the subject and direct attention towards its form and texture. The loose application of color creates an atmospheric effect, suggesting foliage without defining specific shapes. This lack of detail in the surroundings contributes to a feeling of spontaneity and emphasizes the animal’s presence within a larger, undefined natural environment.
Subtly, the work evokes themes of wildness and fragility. The squirrels posture suggests both alertness and vulnerability, hinting at its place within an ecosystem where survival depends on constant vigilance. The loose rendering style further reinforces this sense of transience, as if the artist were attempting to capture a fleeting glimpse of nature before it disappears.