Bushwacker Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The artwork presents a striking vertical composition dominated by a large feline perched high within the branches of a tree. The animal, exhibiting characteristic spotted fur, occupies the central visual space, its gaze directed outward with an intensity that suggests alertness and potential threat. Its posture is relaxed yet poised, conveying both confidence and readiness for action.
The artist has rendered the foliage surrounding the cat with meticulous detail, utilizing varied shades of green and brown to create a sense of depth and texture. The leaves partially obscure the animal, contributing to a feeling of concealment and camouflage – a common strategy employed by predators in their natural habitat. The branches themselves are depicted with considerable realism, showcasing the rough bark and intricate structure of the tree.
The background is starkly simplified; a pale, almost monochromatic expanse serves as a backdrop, isolating the subject and intensifying its presence. This deliberate reduction in detail draws the viewer’s attention solely to the animal and its immediate surroundings. The contrast between the vibrant details of the foliage and the muted background further emphasizes the cats form and highlights its integration within the natural environment.
Subtextually, the work explores themes of power, observation, and the delicate balance between predator and prey. The elevated position of the feline suggests a vantage point of dominance, while its watchful gaze implies an awareness of unseen dangers or potential opportunities. The composition evokes a sense of tension – a moment suspended between stillness and action. It speaks to the inherent wildness of nature and the enduring fascination humans have with apex predators. The artist’s choice to frame the animal within the trees embrace suggests a symbiotic relationship, where both organism and environment are inextricably linked.