Fern Growing on Tree Bark - Original Painting by Neal Parker (2021)

This is an original acrylic painting executed on a Masonite board by artist Neal Parker, dated 2021. The piece measures approximately 12 inches by 14 inches and sits within a contemporary black wooden frame with a visible grain texture. The composition is a realistic botanical study featuring vibrant green fern fronds emerging from the craggy, deeply textured bark of a large tree. The background emphasizes high contrast, using various shades of charcoal, grey, and black to define the organic fissures and shadows of the bark, which provides a dramatic backdrop for the delicate, light-green foliage. The artist demonstrates sophisticated brushwork and layering, capturing the intricate details of the bipinnate fern structure and the rough, tactile surface of the wood. Small patches of mossy green are visible at the base and side, adding to the naturalistic forest floor aesthetic. The painting appears to be in excellent contemporary condition with no visible signs of substrate warping, paint loss, or environmental damage. A signature is located in the lower left corner, rendered in a reddish-brown tone. This work represents a modern interpretation of nature-based realism, showcasing high-quality craftsmanship in both its observational detail and paint application.