IS2 073 Jim Deneen 01 Jim Deneen

The composition presents a scene dominated by a body of water, likely a river or creek, winding through dense foliage. The artist has employed a horizontal format that emphasizes the breadth and tranquility of the landscape. A significant portion of the canvas is dedicated to depicting the waters surface, rendered with subtle variations in tone to suggest depth and movement. Reflections of the surrounding trees are visible on the water’s surface, contributing to an overall sense of stillness and mirroring the environment.
The vegetation appears lush and abundant, forming a thick curtain along both banks. The artist utilizes a range of greens, from deep emerald to lighter shades, creating a layered effect that conveys the density of the woodland. A fallen tree trunk lies partially submerged in the water, adding visual interest and suggesting natural processes of decay and renewal.
A small group of horses is positioned on the right side of the composition, near the riverbank. They appear to be grazing or drinking, their presence introducing a sense of life and activity into the otherwise serene setting. The figures are rendered with a degree of realism, though they remain secondary to the landscape itself. Their muted colors blend them somewhat into the background, preventing them from becoming the focal point.
The light source seems to originate from the left side of the painting, illuminating parts of the foliage and creating highlights on the waters surface. This directional lighting contributes to a sense of depth and volume within the scene. The dark areas surrounding the central image create a frame that draws attention to the depicted landscape.
Subtly, the work evokes themes of wilderness, solitude, and the relationship between humans (represented by the horses) and nature. There is an underlying feeling of quiet observation; it suggests a moment captured in time, undisturbed by human intervention beyond the presence of the animals. The painting’s overall tone is one of peaceful contemplation, inviting the viewer to share in the stillness and beauty of the natural world.