nature #195 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

Here we observe a composition centered around a stag, rendered in a style that blends naturalistic depiction with expressive abstraction. The animal is positioned slightly left of center, its form delineated through washes of brown and ochre, punctuated by darker markings suggesting musculature and fur texture. A sense of movement is conveyed through the angled stance of the stag; it appears to be stepping forward, engaging the viewer directly.
The background is not a detailed landscape but rather an atmospheric suggestion of foliage – greens and yellows are applied in loose, gestural strokes that evoke a woodland environment without defining specific forms. This treatment contributes to a feeling of ambiguity, placing emphasis on the stag as the primary subject while simultaneously hinting at its natural habitat.
To the right of the stag, a detached antler is presented, rendered with similar attention to texture and color variation. Its isolation from the animal’s body creates a visual disconnect, prompting reflection on themes of fragmentation or loss. The placement of this antler also establishes a compositional counterweight to the stags forward momentum.
Superimposed across the composition is handwritten text in an unfamiliar script. The lettering appears fluid and somewhat erratic, suggesting spontaneity rather than meticulous planning. Its presence introduces another layer of complexity; it obscures portions of the image while simultaneously adding a personal, almost confessional element. The illegibility of the language further reinforces this sense of intimacy and mystery, preventing straightforward interpretation and inviting speculation about its meaning.
The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, where elements of naturalism are intertwined with expressive abstraction and textual ambiguity. It seems to explore themes of nature, loss, memory, and perhaps even the limitations of representation itself. The work resists easy categorization, instead presenting a layered visual experience that encourages prolonged engagement and individual interpretation.