Light, movement and gentle color worlds
The painting “Seltene Nutria” (2025, oil on canvas) is a poetic approach to nature in its most subtle form. Through a play of violet, green, and earthy ocher tones, an image of a nutria emerges that is not defined by sharp contours, but develops out of flowing color transitions and light textures.
The motif lies between visibility and dissolution, between form and pure color. Gentle, almost watercolor-like transitions create a floating lightness, while the interplay of light and shadow lends the work a quiet, profound presence.
All important details at a glance
| Feature |
Details |
| Title |
Rare nutria |
| Size |
30 x 24 cm |
| Artist |
Mark Hellbusch |
| Year |
2025 |
| Colors |
Violet, green, ocher |
| Style |
Abstract animal painting |
| Technique |
Oil on canvas |
| Motif |
Nutria |
| Theme |
Nature-inspired abstraction |
The interplay of light, colour and movement
In this work, the choice of colors plays a central role. The soft, flowing tones are reminiscent of the natural transitions in landscapes – from water to land, from shadow to light. The nutria appears only in hints, almost as if it were merging with its surroundings.
The flowing transitions are not random: they reflect the essence of the motif – the harmonious integration into nature. The brushstrokes are loose yet placed with precision, creating a balance between spontaneous painting and deliberate shaping.
The visible artist’s palette – An integrative process
A special feature of this work is the visible artist’s palette that flows into the painting. The traces of the painting process remain recognizable, as if the artwork were still in the making. This lends the painting an additional sense of immediacy and authenticity.
The color gradients are reminiscent of natural reflections on water – an element directly connected to the habitat of the nutria. The fluidity of the paint and the gentle transitions make the work appear in eternal flux – just like water, which never retains its form.
An artwork between figuration and abstraction
Like many works in this series, "Rare Nutria" also moves along the boundary between abstraction and figuration. It allows the viewer to gradually attune to the composition, discover its nuances and develop their own associations.
The soft, almost floating dabs of color invite you to engage with the painting in a contemplative way – a work that does not reveal itself at first sight, but gradually unveils new facets over time.
A unique artwork – a play with perception and nature
With “Seltene Nutria” (“Rare Nutria”), a reflected, intuitive connection emerges between animal depiction and abstract composition. Through the combination of play of colours, transparency and deliberately placed structures, the painting invites the viewer to look closely and grasp the motif on an emotional level.
