lrsVanGinkelPaul-RythumoftheWild Paul Van Ginkel

The composition presents a dense aggregation of equine figures in dynamic motion. Here we observe a herd, or possibly a stampede, rendered with vigorous brushstrokes and a palette dominated by warm earth tones – ochres, browns, siennas – punctuated by stark whites and blacks. The artist has chosen to depict the animals not individually, but as an overwhelming mass of muscle and energy.
The foreground is characterized by a chaotic layering of horses, their forms partially obscured by one another, creating a sense of depth and relentless forward momentum. Mane and tail are rendered with swirling strokes that amplify the impression of speed and untamed power. The heads of several animals are visible, displaying expressions ranging from focused intensity to apparent panic.
The background is less defined, appearing as an abstract swirl of reds and browns, suggesting a landscape consumed by heat or perhaps a metaphorical representation of primal forces. This lack of clear spatial context contributes to the feeling that the scene exists outside of conventional reality – a moment captured in its rawest form.
Subtly, there’s a suggestion of a border or frame within the painting itself, delineated by darker tones and slightly more structured brushwork. This framing device serves to isolate the chaotic energy of the horses, emphasizing their otherness and reinforcing the sense that they exist beyond human control. The absence of any discernible horizon line further contributes to this feeling of confinement and intensity.
The work seems to explore themes of freedom, instinct, and the untamable spirit of nature. It’s not merely a depiction of horses; its an evocation of a force – a rhythm – that is both beautiful and potentially destructive. The artist has prioritized conveying this visceral experience over precise anatomical representation, resulting in a powerful and emotionally charged visual statement.