Susie Matthias – Ice Bear and Cubs (mouthpainted), De Susie Matthias

Here we observe a depiction of a polar bear accompanied by two cubs, set against a backdrop of undulating ice formations. The composition is dominated by the large adult bear positioned centrally and slightly off-kilter, its posture suggesting alertness and vigilance. It leans forward, head turned towards the left side of the frame, creating a sense of implied movement and anticipation. The two cubs are clustered near the base of the adult, one directly in front and another partially obscured, reinforcing the theme of familial protection and dependence.
The artist employs a palette primarily composed of cool tones – blues, whites, and pale yellows – to evoke the harshness and beauty of an Arctic environment. The ice formations behind the bears are rendered with layered brushstrokes, creating a sense of depth and texture that mimics the complex structure of glacial landscapes. These layers also contribute to a feeling of vastness and isolation.
The light source appears to be diffused, casting soft shadows and minimizing harsh contrasts. This contributes to a gentle, almost dreamlike quality within the scene. The artist’s technique allows for a delicate rendering of fur texture on both the adult bear and the cubs, conveying a sense of softness despite the implied coldness of their surroundings.
Subtextually, the painting speaks to themes of survival, motherhood, and the fragility of Arctic ecosystems. The watchful posture of the adult bear suggests an awareness of potential threats within its environment, hinting at the challenges faced by these animals in a changing climate. The cubs’ proximity to the mother underscores the importance of parental care for their survival.
The compositions deliberate arrangement – the adult bear as a protective figure and the cubs reliant on her presence – can be interpreted as a metaphor for broader familial bonds and the responsibility of safeguarding vulnerable members within any community. The vast, icy landscape serves not only as a setting but also as a symbolic representation of the challenges inherent in existence within a demanding natural world.