RainFollowsthePlow Barbara Norfleet

The composition presents a stark and unsettling tableau set against a dramatic sky. A gnarled, bleached root system dominates the foreground, its twisting form rising from a bed of sandy soil. The wood appears weathered and desiccated, suggesting a prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. Three iridescent green beetles are positioned on and around this structure; one perches atop the highest point of the root, while two others occupy lower positions. A large, reddish-brown spider is centrally located, its long legs extended as if poised for movement or observation.
The sky behind forms a significant element of the work. It’s rendered in deep shades of grey and purple, indicative of an impending storm. The clouds are heavy and turbulent, contributing to a sense of foreboding and instability. A border frames the image, creating a sense of containment and emphasizing the artificiality of the scene.
The arrangement of elements suggests a deliberate commentary on vulnerability and survival within a precarious ecosystem. The beetles vibrant green coloration contrasts sharply with the muted tones of the wood and the somber sky, highlighting their resilience or perhaps their conspicuousness in this environment. Their placement atop the root implies a dependence on this decaying structure for sustenance or shelter.
The spider’s presence introduces an element of predation and potential threat. Its size relative to the beetles emphasizes its dominance within this miniature world. The overall effect is one of quiet tension, where beauty and decay coexist alongside the ever-present possibility of danger. The work seems to explore themes of fragility, adaptation, and the cyclical nature of life and death in a harsh landscape. It evokes a sense of isolation and the precariousness of existence, prompting reflection on the delicate balance within natural systems.