Nature #30 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The drawing presents a curious juxtaposition of natural imagery and handwritten text. A prominent feature is the depiction of a foxs head and forequarters, rendered in muted browns and tans with delicate watercolor washes that suggest fur texture. The animal’s gaze is directed slightly upwards and to the right, conveying an impression of alertness or perhaps quiet observation.
Surrounding the fox are several smaller elements: a stylized bird perched on a branch, a deer depicted in profile, and scattered leaves rendered in varying shades of green and yellow. These components contribute to a sense of woodland setting, though the overall style is not strictly representational; rather, it leans towards an evocative and symbolic portrayal of nature.
The most striking aspect of the drawing is the presence of text overlaid directly onto the image. The script appears to be handwritten in Dutch, filling much of the space around and even partially obscuring portions of the fox’s form. This integration of language and imagery creates a layered effect, suggesting that the text is not merely descriptive but rather integral to the works meaning.
The placement of the text seems deliberate; it flows organically with the contours of the fox’s head and body, as if the animal itself is emanating or embodying the words. The deer is pointed at by an arrow, which might indicate a connection between the written content and the depicted creature.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of observation, communication, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. The fox, often associated with cunning and intuition, seems to be a conduit for the poetic text. The inclusion of other woodland creatures suggests an interconnectedness within this ecosystem, while the handwritten script introduces a personal, intimate element that invites contemplation on the act of recording and interpreting experience. The signature at the bottom right corner indicates authorship, grounding the work in a specific creative perspective.