Season Diane Dillon

The composition presents a scene unfolding on and around a small boat adrift in calm waters. The color palette is dominated by muted greens and yellows, lending a sense of tranquility and perhaps hinting at a specific time of year – likely late summer or early autumn given the foliage. A border frames the central image, adding to its decorative quality.
Here we see four figures engaged in fishing activities. Two individuals are positioned within the boat; one is actively hauling fish from a net, while the other holds several large fish, seemingly displaying their catch with pride. A third figure stands at the bow of the vessel, holding an exceptionally large fish aloft, almost as if presenting it to the viewer. The fourth person, a young child, sits nestled within the folds of the woman’s robes, observing the scene with quiet attentiveness.
The landscape behind the boat is characterized by gently sloping hills and sparse vegetation. A rocky outcrop rises from the water on the left side of the frame, adding depth to the composition. The trees are rendered in a stylized manner, their forms simplified and elongated. A cluster of vibrant red flowers punctuates the background, providing a striking contrast against the predominantly green hues.
The arrangement of figures suggests a familial or communal activity – fishing is presented not merely as sustenance gathering but also as a shared experience. The child’s presence reinforces this sense of intergenerational connection and participation in traditional practices. The scale of the fish held by the individuals, particularly the one aloft, could be interpreted symbolically; it might represent abundance, prosperity, or even a successful harvest.
The inscription A Time to Keep at the bottom of the image introduces an element of reflection. It suggests that this moment – the act of fishing and the shared experience – is something valuable to preserve and cherish, perhaps alluding to themes of tradition, memory, and the cyclical nature of life. The overall impression is one of quiet contentment and a harmonious relationship with the natural world.