bs-na- Terry Lee- Elephant Waterhole Terry Lee

The composition presents a group of elephants gathered at a water source within what appears to be an African savanna environment. The artist has chosen a warm color palette dominated by shades of orange, ochre, and brown, which imbues the scene with a sense of heat and intensity. Light seems to emanate from behind the animals, creating a luminous effect that highlights their forms while casting them in shadow simultaneously.
Here we see several elephants: an adult male prominently positioned on the left, partially obscured by others; two adults closer to the waters edge, one seemingly drinking; and a smaller elephant calf nestled between them. The arrangement suggests familial bonds and a protective dynamic within the herd. The artist has rendered the texture of their skin with visible brushstrokes, conveying a sense of roughness and age.
The surrounding vegetation is depicted in broad strokes, suggesting dense foliage without intricate detail. Trees are silhouetted against a pale sky, contributing to the overall feeling of enclosure and isolation. A body of water occupies the lower portion of the canvas; its surface reflects the light and colors above, creating a sense of depth and tranquility that contrasts with the weighty presence of the elephants.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of survival and dependence on natural resources. The gathering at the waterhole underscores the importance of this element for their existence. There is also an underlying tension present; while the scene appears peaceful, it hints at a vulnerability inherent in these creatures within their environment. The limited color range and the emphasis on texture contribute to a feeling of timelessness, suggesting a scene that has played out repeatedly across generations. The composition’s focus on the elephants mass and form conveys a sense of power and resilience, while also hinting at the fragility of this ecosystem.