05b William Schimmel

The composition presents a layered scene dominated by a vibrant and dramatic sky. A crescent moon hangs in the upper left corner, surrounded by scattered stars against a deep indigo backdrop. Below this celestial display, a fiery sunset unfolds across the horizon, rendered with intense oranges, reds, and yellows that suggest both warmth and impending darkness.
The lower portion of the work depicts an African savanna landscape. Several giraffes graze in the distance, while elephants move along the plains. Two lion cubs are positioned prominently on a rocky outcrop in the foreground, their gazes directed towards the rising sun. They appear small and vulnerable against the vastness of the environment.
Overarching this entire scene is the imposing visage of an adult male lion. His head floats above the landscape, seemingly detached from the terrestrial realm. The lion’s expression is intense; his eyes convey a sense of watchful authority and perhaps even melancholy. He appears to be both present within the scene and elevated beyond it.
The artist utilizes strong contrasts in color and light to create a feeling of awe and reverence. The bright, saturated colors evoke a sense of wonder while also hinting at potential danger inherent in the natural world. The juxtaposition of the vulnerable cubs with the powerful adult lion suggests themes of lineage, protection, and the cyclical nature of life. The placement of the lion’s head above the landscape implies a spiritual or symbolic significance, possibly representing ancestral guidance or a connection to something greater than the immediate environment. Overall, the work conveys a sense of hope and resilience within a challenging natural setting.