Blue Opossum by Kurt Zimmerman

Kurt Zimmerman. Detail of Blue Opossum, 2005. Acrylic on paper on a custom frame.19 ½ x 26 ¾ in. Courtesy of the Museum of Art-DeLand.

Staring intensely with a mischievous side eye, a possum stands with an unknown purpose. Strokes of red and blue paint define its messy fur. Grinning as if it has been caught, its jagged, crooked teeth bite down ferociously or mockingly, protruding in different directions. Its beady eyes appear dilated, proposing a battle it may not be ready to face. A yellow, contrasting background shines bright from behind the animal, possibly the sun. Will the possum scurry on, or is it preparing for a daunting encounter?