Tall Shadows Detail Simon Combes (1940-2004)

The composition presents a striking verticality, dominated by the elongated form of an animal – a giraffe – emerging from a dense thicket. The perspective is unusual; we are positioned low, looking upwards at the creature, which emphasizes its considerable height and creates a sense of awe. The dark background, almost entirely black, serves to isolate the subject and intensify the contrast with the warm tones of the giraffe’s coat and the surrounding foliage.
The artist has rendered the animals patterned hide with meticulous detail, capturing the complexity of its markings. These patterns are not merely decorative; they contribute to a visual rhythm that draws the eye upwards along the length of the neck. The texture of the dry grass at the base of the composition is also carefully observed, adding a layer of realism and grounding the scene.
The branches of trees overhang the giraffe, partially obscuring its head and creating an interplay of light and shadow across its body. This framing effect suggests a sense of enclosure or concealment, hinting at the animal’s natural habitat and perhaps alluding to themes of vulnerability within a larger ecosystem. The limited visibility of the giraffes face invites speculation about its state of mind – is it alert, wary, or simply observing?
The overall impression is one of quiet observation and reverence for nature. The restricted palette and dramatic lighting contribute to an atmosphere of mystery and solitude. There’s a suggestion that this moment is fleeting, captured in time, highlighting the beauty and fragility of wildlife within its environment. The verticality of the composition might also be interpreted as symbolizing aspiration or reaching beyond limitations – a visual metaphor for growth and transcendence.