Gentle Monarch - Original

Oil on Canvas

24”x24”, 28”x28” with frame

Wire hanging system

2023

Artist Statement

"Gentle Monarch" captures the regal essence of the elk, a majestic creature that gracefully reigns over the Colorado landscapes. The thick, expressive brushstrokes shape the noble head of the elk against an abstract backdrop adorned with hues of teal, orange, and gold, reflecting the vibrant spirit of its natural habitat.

The canvas becomes a testament to the artist's profound love for these creatures, particularly the elk that roam the picturesque landscapes of Colorado. With an annual pilgrimage to Estes Park, the artist recalls a poignant encounter where the elk surrounded them, creating a sea of majestic beings. In the midst of this awe-inspiring spectacle, the elk demonstrate an unparalleled ease, seamlessly navigating between the untamed wilderness of the mountains and the quaint streets of Estes.

As the head of the elk emerges from the canvas, it carries the weight of its rightful title—Gentle Monarch. The choice of words resonates with the inherent majesty and regality of this noble creature. The elk is portrayed not merely as a part of the landscape but as a king, a sovereign being deserving of praise and admiration.

In "Gentle Monarch," the artist invites the viewer to witness the profound beauty of the elk, to recognize its royal presence in both the untamed expanses and the human-inhabited spaces. Through the interplay of colors and strokes, the artwork becomes a visual hymn, celebrating the elk as a symbol of grace, majesty, and the enduring spirit of the wild.