lrs Stavrowsky O Be Nice Now O Stavrowsky

The composition presents a figure on horseback, viewed from behind and slightly angled towards the viewer. The man is clad in traditional Western attire: a light pink shirt, blue jeans, and a white cowboy hat obscures his face, contributing to a sense of anonymity or detachment. He wears a brown leather saddle with decorative stitching, suggesting both functionality and a degree of personal investment.
The horse itself dominates much of the visual space. Its dark coloration contrasts sharply with the lighter tones of the man’s clothing and the background landscape. The musculature is rendered with visible brushstrokes, conveying strength and vitality. A rope hangs loosely from the saddle horn, hinting at an activity related to horsemanship – perhaps roping or ranch work.
The backdrop is a blurred expanse of muted colors – yellows, browns, and grays – suggesting a vast, open landscape, possibly a prairie or desert. The indistinct nature of this background serves to focus attention on the central figures. Theres an impression of depth created by the layering of these tones, though details remain elusive.
The artist’s application of paint is characterized by thick impasto, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the horse and saddle. This technique adds texture and a sense of physicality to the scene. The brushwork appears energetic and expressive, contributing to an overall feeling of movement and immediacy.
Subtextually, the painting evokes themes of solitude, resilience, and connection with nature. The obscured face of the man invites speculation about his identity or emotional state; he could be interpreted as a symbol of the stoic Western archetype, facing an uncertain future within a vast and indifferent environment. The horse, traditionally associated with freedom and untamed spirit, reinforces this sense of independence. The title Be Nice Now introduces a layer of complexity – a possible plea for restraint or civility in a potentially harsh setting, or perhaps a wry commentary on the expectations placed upon individuals within a specific cultural context.