nature #196 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The composition presents a grouping of animal figures rendered in watercolor and ink on paper. Dominating the left side is a pair of upright hares, their forms depicted with energetic brushstrokes that convey movement and vitality. The artist has emphasized their elongated ears and powerful hind legs, suggesting a sense of leaping or dancing. A vertical streak of yellow pigment runs down the center of this grouping, acting as both a visual divider and potentially symbolizing an element of disruption or contrast within the scene.
To the right of the hares, a sequence of smaller figures emerges from a field of muted greens and browns. These appear to be rodents – possibly mice or voles – depicted in various stages of motion: some are leaping, others seem to be scurrying across the ground. The rendering here is less detailed than that of the hares, contributing to a sense of distance and perhaps suggesting a fleeting glimpse into a hidden world.
Beneath this cluster of rodents, a darker mass of forms gathers – a group of what appear to be black birds or animals huddled together. Their presence introduces an element of shadow and mystery, contrasting with the lighter tones and more animated figures above. The arrangement suggests a sense of community or perhaps vulnerability within this shadowed space.
Superimposed over the scene is handwritten text in a language that isn’t immediately recognizable. Its placement across the animal forms creates a layered effect, blurring the boundaries between image and word. This textual element introduces an additional layer of meaning, potentially offering narrative context or commentary on the depicted scene. The scripts presence suggests a personal connection to the work, hinting at a story or thought process that extends beyond the visual representation.
The overall impression is one of dynamic energy and subtle tension. The juxtaposition of different animal forms – the graceful hares, the scurrying rodents, and the huddled birds – creates a complex interplay of movement, vulnerability, and community. The integration of text further enriches the work, inviting contemplation on themes of nature, narrative, and personal expression.