Agnew, Al – You Can Lead a Zebra (end Al Agnew

The composition presents a herd of zebras gathered around a small body of water within a savanna landscape. The artist has rendered the scene with meticulous detail, emphasizing the texture of the tall grasses and the intricate patterns of the animals stripes. A dense cluster of foliage occupies the left foreground, partially obscuring the view and creating a sense of depth. Beyond this initial screen, the zebras are distributed across a gently sloping terrain that leads to a distant horizon line.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted greens – which contribute to an overall feeling of warmth and naturalism. The water itself reflects the sky and surrounding vegetation, adding visual interest and reinforcing the sense of tranquility. Light appears diffused, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon conditions.
The arrangement of the zebras is noteworthy. While they appear to be engaged in a communal activity – drinking – theres an absence of overt interaction between them. They are close together physically but seem individually focused. This lack of discernible social dynamic introduces a subtle layer of complexity, hinting at themes of conformity and individuality within a group setting. The title’s implication – that one cannot truly control or direct such creatures – resonates with this observation; the zebras inherent nature resists imposed order.
The vastness of the landscape in contrast to the relatively small pool of water suggests vulnerability and dependence on limited resources. This juxtaposition could be interpreted as a commentary on the precarious balance between wildlife, environment, and human influence. The distant trees and hazy horizon create an impression of boundless space, yet also imply isolation and potential danger beyond what is immediately visible.

The painting’s subtext seems to explore themes of natural instinct versus imposed control, individual identity within collective behavior, and the delicate relationship between life and its environment.