p-bwa-01 Lee Cable

The painting presents a large feline, presumably a cougar or puma, centrally positioned within a dense and somewhat chaotic natural environment. The animals gaze is directed outward, conveying a sense of alertness and perhaps introspection. Its posture suggests a moment of stillness amidst an unseen activity.
Here we see the artist employing a palette dominated by warm tones – ochres, browns, oranges, and touches of deep red – which contribute to a feeling of heat and intensity. The background foliage is rendered in a loose, expressive style, with thick brushstrokes creating a sense of depth and complexity. These strokes are not intended for precise botanical representation; instead, they evoke the texture and density of undergrowth. A network of branches and vines intertwines around the animal, partially obscuring it and suggesting an environment that is both protective and restrictive.
The lighting appears to be uneven, with highlights emphasizing the feline’s muscular form and creating a dramatic contrast against the darker areas of the background. This selective illumination draws attention to the animals face, particularly its eyes, which are rendered with remarkable detail and intensity. The artist has captured an almost palpable sense of focus within those eyes.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of solitude and wildness. The cougar’s isolation within the dense foliage suggests a creature removed from human presence, existing on its own terms. The title Pensive Puma hints at an internal state – a moment of contemplation or observation that transcends mere survival instincts. The tangled branches could be interpreted as symbolic barriers, representing challenges or limitations encountered in the natural world.
The overall effect is one of quiet power and restrained emotion. It’s a portrait not just of an animal, but also of its inherent dignity and resilience within a complex ecosystem.