#10938 Rafael Zabaleta

The watercolor presents a landscape dominated by a large mountain rising in the background. The artist employed a loose, expressive style, prioritizing color and texture over precise representation. A sense of immediacy is conveyed through the visible brushstrokes and the fluidity of the washes.
In the foreground, several trees are positioned on the left side of the composition. These are not rendered with botanical accuracy; instead, they function as compositional anchors, their forms simplified into a series of vertical lines punctuated by patches of green foliage. The trunks exhibit a rough texture achieved through layered applications of paint, suggesting age and resilience. A low stone wall runs parallel to the foreground edge, partially obscured by vegetation, hinting at human presence within this natural setting.
The middle ground is characterized by rolling hills and fields rendered in varying shades of yellow, orange, and green. These colors are not blended smoothly but rather applied in distinct blocks, creating a vibrant, almost abstract effect. The layering of these hues suggests depth and atmospheric perspective.
The mountain itself occupies the upper portion of the canvas. Its form is defined by broad strokes of blue and gray, with lighter tones suggesting highlights on its slopes. A sense of distance is established through this tonal variation and the softening of details as they recede into the background. The sky above is a pale wash of white and light blue, contributing to the overall feeling of spaciousness and tranquility.
Subtly, theres an exploration of the relationship between nature and human intervention. While the landscape appears largely untouched, the presence of the stone wall indicates a history of cultivation or enclosure. This juxtaposition invites contemplation on humanity’s impact on the environment, albeit in a gentle and understated manner. The overall impression is one of quiet observation and appreciation for the beauty of the natural world, captured through an individualistic and emotionally charged artistic lens.