Fish V 1969

"Fish V" is a 1969 oil painting by Rita Angus, a prominent New Zealand artist known for her stylized depictions of the country's landscape and natural life. The artwork, now housed at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, presents a vibrant underwater scene teeming with a diverse array of fish and crustaceans, rendered in a distinctive semi-realistic style. Angus's signature use of bold colors and simplified forms creates a striking visual impact, capturing the essence of marine life while emphasizing the artist's individual artistic vision. The composition is dynamic, with the central figure of a large lobster dominating the scene, its red shell contrasting with the surrounding blues and greens, creating a sense of depth and movement. This painting exemplifies Angus's enduring contribution to New Zealand art, demonstrating her keen observation of nature and her mastery of color and form.