A Light Leap in the Forest – Squirrel Oil Painting by DPRK Artist Kim Young-chol
A Light Leap in the Forest is a 65 × 98 cm squirrel oil painting by DPRK artist Kim Young-chol, capturing delicate movement, realism, and the vitality of nature.
A Light Leap in the Forest is a finely executed animal oil painting by DPRK artist Kim Young-chol（金英哲）, measuring 65 × 98 cm.
The artwork portrays a squirrel poised on a tree branch, captured at a quiet yet alert moment, embodying the vitality and sensitivity of wildlife.
This painting transforms an ordinary forest scene into a vivid and intimate encounter with nature.
🎨 Composition and Visual Balance
The composition is simple but highly effective:
- The squirrel is positioned slightly off-center
- The branch creates a natural horizontal anchor
- The soft, blurred background enhances depth
- Negative space directs focus to the animal
This layout allows the viewer’s eye to settle naturally on the squirrel’s posture and expression.
🖌 Brushwork and Technique
Kim Young-chol demonstrates exceptional control in:
- Rendering the squirrel’s fur with layered, soft strokes
- Defining subtle light reflections in the eyes
- Creating realistic texture on the tree bark
The brushwork is precise yet gentle, balancing realism with painterly warmth.
🌿 Color and Atmosphere
The artist employs a harmonious natural palette:
- Warm browns and oranges for the squirrel
- Soft greens and yellows in the background
- Muted transitions that suggest forest light
This color harmony creates a peaceful, immersive woodland atmosphere.
🎭 Emotional Tone
Unlike dramatic wildlife scenes, this painting focuses on quiet observation:
- The squirrel’s posture conveys alert curiosity
- The raised tail adds elegance and motion
- The overall mood is calm, lively, and intimate
It reflects the DPRK realist tradition of finding beauty in modest, everyday moments of nature.
🖼 Artistic and Collecting Value
With its vertical format (65 × 98 cm), this work is ideal for:
- Private collectors of animal art
- Nature-themed interiors
- Offices, studies, or gallery walls
- Collectors seeking refined DPRK wildlife paintings
Its approachable subject and high technical quality make it suitable for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers.
👨🎨 About the Artist
Kim Young-chol（金英哲） is a DPRK painter recognized for his animal and wildlife oil paintings. His works emphasize realism, careful observation, and emotional restraint, presenting nature with respect and warmth rather than exaggeration.
🌐 Discover more original DPRK animal and landscape oil paintings at
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