Zura bridges the boundaries between human and animal, reflecting on primal instincts that resonate universally. In Goat, the artist’s hallmark—melding expressive brushwork with symbolic animal forms—takes center stage, unveiling resilience, independence, and a raw emotional depth

Concept & Interpretation

The goat symbolizes tenacity and self-reliance, yet Zura’s rendition transcends mere representation. This work probes the symbiotic relationship between human emotion and animal instinct. The goat appears not just as an animal, but as an emblem of inner strength and untamed spirit, inviting viewers to explore themes of identity, intuition, and coexistence with nature,

Context within Zura’s Work

Originating from his formative years, Goat exemplifies Zura’s signature fusion of figurative and symbolic elements. Set in the early 2010s, this piece captures his dedication to interspecies portraiture—a practice he continued in later works featuring rhinos, birds, and fish—melding emotion, abstraction, and form to powerful effect.

Goat invites introspection. It's a meditation on inner ferocity, tranquility, and the duality of human and animalistic traits. This painting stands as a compelling anchor in Zura’s oeuvre—an early piece that defines his ongoing investigation into the essence of life, identity, and expression.

Visual & Textural Qualities

Dynamic Composition: The goat dominates the wooden panel with an assertive stance, its presence both symbolic and evocative.

Expressive Brushwork: Bold lines and sweeping strokes animate the form, imbuing it with strength and primal energy.

Material Contrast: The warmth and grain of the wood panel amplify the vitality of the acrylic, creating a harmonious tension between medium and message.