Nature #38 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The artwork presents a vignette of rural life, dominated by a sense of quiet observation and muted naturalism. Here we see a hare positioned centrally within the composition, its form rendered with loose, expressive brushstrokes that suggest movement and alertness. The animals posture – a slight crouch, ears pricked forward – implies a readiness for flight or an intense awareness of its surroundings.
The surrounding environment is depicted in similarly fluid strokes, primarily utilizing earthy tones of brown, ochre, and grey. Tall grasses and reeds frame the hare on the left side, their verticality contrasting with the gentle slope of the land receding into the background. A rudimentary fence appears further back, hinting at human presence but remaining secondary to the natural elements. The sky is suggested through washes of pale grey, contributing to a pervasive atmosphere of stillness and perhaps even melancholy.
The artist’s technique emphasizes texture and light. The application of paint is not uniform; instead, it varies in density and opacity, creating areas of both shadow and highlight that define form without resorting to precise detail. This approach lends the scene an immediacy and spontaneity, as if captured from a fleeting moment.
Subtly, the work evokes themes of vulnerability and resilience. The hare, a creature often associated with fragility and swiftness, is placed within a landscape that feels both protective and potentially threatening. The muted palette and lack of vibrant color contribute to a feeling of introspection, inviting contemplation on the delicate balance between life and environment. Theres an underlying sense of solitude; the scene appears devoid of human activity, allowing for a focus on the inherent beauty and quiet drama of the natural world.