Marine Composition with Three Fish
Painting on paper • Donna Burgess
Style & Movement
Contemporary Coastal Art / Illustrative Naturalism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and gouache with possible ink outlines; utilizes wet-on-dry layering and detailed scale illustrations
Creation Period
Late 20th century to early 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 12 inches (exclusive of frame); landscape orientation, square or near-square format
Subject Description
The composition features three fish arranged horizontally in a vertical stack against a stylized aquatic background. The background incorporates abstract geometric shapes, stars, and celestial/maritime motifs. The fish are rendered with anatomical detail (individual scales and fin rays) contrasted against a more expressive, vibrantly colored environment including deep blues and reddish-browns.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the colors appear vibrant with minimal fading, though there is slight evidence of paper cockling due to the wet medium.
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $500 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $400 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or a regional gallery in Florida (the artist's primary base of operations)
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the Florida Gulf Coast regional art scene; Burgess is known for her 'Coastal Narrative' style which merges realism with whimsical, often symbolic background elements.
Notable Features
Distinctive fine-line work on the fish scales and a unique blend of nautical symbolism (stars and shapes) that characterizes the artist's personal brand.
Condition Issues
Slight rippling of the paper support; potential light acid burn from non-archival matting visible at the edges of the frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is mounted behind UV-protective glass and uses acid-free, archival-grade matting to prevent long-term yellowing; avoid direct sunlight exposure.
Collector Notes
Donna Burgess