lrsLeeTerry-ElephantWaterhole Terry Lee

The composition presents a group of elephants gathered at what appears to be a water source. The scene is dominated by warm earth tones – ochres, browns, and yellows – which contribute to a sense of heat and aridity characteristic of a savanna environment. A dense thicket of trees forms the backdrop, rendered in varying shades of green and brown, suggesting depth and providing a visual contrast to the animals’ coloration.
Here we see three elephants prominently displayed: an adult male at the forefront, a smaller elephant seemingly following closely behind him, and another individual partially obscured within the group. The lead elephant is actively engaged in drinking, its trunk submerged in the water. This action immediately establishes the scenes central theme – sustenance and survival.
The artist’s brushwork appears loose and expressive, particularly evident in the foliage of the trees where strokes are visible and layered. This technique lends a sense of immediacy to the depiction, as if capturing a fleeting moment in time. The light source seems to originate from above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that define form and volume within the elephants’ bodies.
Subtleties in the composition suggest deeper meanings. The positioning of the smaller elephant behind the adult implies familial bonds and protection – a common motif in depictions of wildlife. The obscured presence of another individual hints at a larger social structure beyond what is immediately visible, suggesting a community or herd dynamic. The waterhole itself serves as more than just a setting; it represents a vital resource, potentially symbolizing life, renewal, and the fragility of ecosystems.
The overall effect is one of quiet observation – an invitation to contemplate the natural world and the intricate relationships that sustain it. The painting evokes a feeling of reverence for these creatures and their environment, while also subtly alluding to themes of vulnerability and dependence on shared resources.