Paul Schurch – Olympic Salamander & Blackberry Briar (detail), De Paul Schurch

The composition presents a dense arrangement of natural elements rendered in layered wood veneers. A sprawling vine dominates the upper portion of the frame, its reddish-brown branches twisting and supporting clusters of cream-colored blossoms and broad, textured leaves. The foliage exhibits a remarkable attention to detail; individual veins are delineated within each leaf, contributing to a sense of organic complexity.
A lizard, seemingly a salamander given its elongated form and mottled coloration, is positioned centrally in the lower half of the image. It appears to be navigating amongst the undergrowth, its body partially obscured by the leaves and branches. The creature’s posture suggests movement or alertness, adding a dynamic element to the otherwise static arrangement.
The background consists of vertical striations of orange wood grain, which create a sense of depth and texture. A thin band of darker brown separates this textured backdrop from the lower portion of the image, further defining the compositions layers.
Beyond the literal depiction of flora and fauna, the work seems to explore themes of interconnectedness and hidden life within nature. The salamander’s presence suggests a secretive world existing just beyond immediate perception. The meticulous rendering of each element implies an appreciation for the intricacies of the natural order. The use of wood as a medium reinforces this connection to organic materials, grounding the image in a tangible sense of place and time. There is a deliberate quality to the arrangement; it isnt merely a representation of nature but rather a carefully constructed tableau that invites contemplation on the relationship between observation and interpretation.