Drip… Drop… Drip, drip… drop.
The rain patters on the small land of the Minish. The grass grows damp, the dirt softens to mud, and the mushrooms shield all underneath their cap from the heavy droplets from above. A single glimmer of sunlight glistens over the forest. Loose droplets catch the light and sparkle like stars. Protected by the four leaves of a clover, a Minish goes unnoticed by the Hylians. It looks up, watching the rain fall around it and listening to the song the shower plays.
“Minish” by Poketix is a soft piece of life and color featuring a little Minish character walking through the mushrooms of the forest. Other than being an absolutely adorable depiction of the Minish, Poketix has managed to evoke the blooming emotions of springtime complete with the essence of rebirth and hope.
The first time I laid eyes on Poketix’s piece, I heard the “Drip, drip, drop” of the song “Little April Shower” featured in Walt Disney’s Bambi. The soft palette textured with the movement of light rain held the reminiscent of the first droplets of spring spreading life wherever it falls. Some creatures relish in the wet weather while others seek shelter, watching the rain and waiting for it to pass. The Minish featured in the piece looks like the latter, walking to find a place to rest until sunshine dries the forest floor.
Rain is commonly associated with negative feelings like sadness, but this piece holds hope. In the top left corner, sunlight pierces through the foliage of the forest. The light brings out the brightness of the green and illuminates the oranges and yellows, and fills the piece with life. Everything breathes, swaying as if a breeze lives in the piece. I can see the grass swaying, the rain falling, the mushrooms blooming, and the four leaves of the little clover trying to break free from the clasped hands of the Minish. Not a single shadow of decay plagues the piece. Life allows hope to spread just like the first flowers of spring.
It would be impossible to talk about this piece and not mention the little creature stealing the show. With golden eyes, the little Forest Minish looks up at the sky above with a glint of wonder. There’s a fairy tale quality to the Minish. Their small size and mystical nature are reminiscent of the little elves and creatures from European folklore only to be seen by good children who still believe in dreams. I could easily picture this artwork amongst a collection of children’s tales invoking wonder and imagination.
Every time I look at the scene captured in Poketix’s work, I’m filled with peace. The rain, the mushrooms, and the natural design of the Forest Minish all work together in harmony, composing a melody that needs no instrument. I feel like a little girl again, embracing the wonder of fairy circles and following the trails of magic. If I believe hard enough, can I see the Minish too?
