pa NormanArlott 04 White FacedTreeDuck Norman Arlott

The artwork presents a pair of birds perched on a network of branches extending over water. The composition is dominated by a muted palette of greens and browns, creating a tranquil yet somewhat melancholic atmosphere. Here we see two avian subjects, their plumage exhibiting a rich reddish-brown hue contrasted sharply with stark white facial markings. Their posture suggests alertness; one bird gazes directly forward while the other turns its head slightly, as if listening for an approaching presence.
The branches themselves are rendered with meticulous detail, their gnarled forms suggesting age and resilience. They appear to be partially submerged in water, which reflects a pale green light, blurring the distinction between surface and depth. The artist has employed subtle variations in tone to convey the texture of both the feathers and the bark, lending a sense of realism to the scene.
The background is simplified, consisting primarily of a flat expanse of color that reinforces the feeling of isolation and stillness. This lack of detail draws attention to the birds as the central focus. The signature appears discreetly in the lower right corner, indicating an artist’s careful consideration for the overall aesthetic balance.
Subtleties within the work hint at themes beyond mere naturalistic depiction. The pairing of the birds might suggest companionship or a symbolic representation of partnership. Their watchful stance could imply vulnerability and a constant awareness of their surroundings, perhaps alluding to the precariousness of existence in a wild environment. The muted color scheme contributes to an overall sense of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to consider the delicate beauty and inherent fragility of the natural world.