Nature #99 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The artwork presents a vignette of woodland creatures rendered in watercolor, set against a stark white background. A young deer dominates the left side of the composition, its form captured with delicate brushstrokes that suggest both softness and alertness. The animal is depicted mid-stride, seemingly grazing or investigating the ground. To its left, a hedgehog curls into a protective ball, while a small insect hovers near the foreground.
On the right, a fluffy chicken stands alongside a snail, creating a contrasting grouping of textures and forms. A rabbit occupies the lower center, positioned in profile and facing towards the viewer. The animals are not arranged within a landscape; instead, they appear isolated on the plane, emphasizing their individual presence.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing earthy tones – browns, greens, yellows – with subtle washes of watercolor creating depth and atmosphere. The artist’s technique lends a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the work.
Superimposed across the composition in elegant script are lines of text written in Dutch. These words appear to function as a poetic inscription, adding another layer of meaning to the scene. A tentative translation suggests a reflection on the passage of time, evoking feelings of nostalgia and childhood exploration. The inclusion of this textual element elevates the work beyond a simple depiction of wildlife; it introduces an introspective quality, hinting at themes of memory, innocence, and the fleeting nature of experience.
The overall effect is one of quiet observation and gentle contemplation, inviting the viewer to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the natural world.