#04428 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The drawing presents a solitary vertical element dominating the composition. Here we observe a tall, slender tree, its form sharply defined against a softly rendered background. The color palette is restricted primarily to variations of yellow and ochre, creating a sense of warmth and perhaps suggesting a sun-drenched environment.
The tree’s placement in the center draws immediate attention, establishing it as the focal point. Its height emphasizes its isolation; it appears singular within the landscape. Surrounding the central tree is a dense arrangement of shrubbery and what seems to be low-lying vegetation, all rendered with similar hues, blurring the distinction between foreground and background. This creates an impression of uniformity and perhaps even confinement.
The artist has employed a technique that prioritizes texture over precise detail. The foliage appears constructed from short, repeated strokes, giving it a slightly bristly quality. This textural emphasis contributes to the overall sense of visual density.
Subtleties in tone suggest a light source originating from above and behind the viewer, casting gentle shadows that define the forms without creating harsh contrasts. The background is deliberately muted, almost washed out, which serves to further isolate the central tree and enhance its prominence.
The drawing evokes feelings of quiet contemplation and perhaps even melancholy. The solitary nature of the tree could be interpreted as a symbol of resilience or endurance in an unchanging environment. Alternatively, it might suggest a sense of loneliness or introspection. The limited color range reinforces this subdued mood, contributing to a feeling of stillness and timelessness.