My Two Loves Lesley Harrison

The composition presents a woman astride a horse, with a young child seated before her. The scene unfolds in what appears to be a rural setting, suggested by the blurred background and the presence of a wooden fence post. A hazy atmosphere pervades the image, softening edges and contributing to a sense of gentle movement.
The woman is positioned centrally within the frame, her posture suggesting both control and tenderness. She wears casual attire – jeans and a striped shirt – indicative of an informal setting and perhaps a lifestyle connected to outdoor activities. Her gaze is directed forward, but not rigidly so; there’s a subtle indication of attentiveness towards the child. The child, dressed in a sweater and trousers, appears secure on the horse, his expression unreadable yet seemingly content.
The artist has rendered the horse with considerable detail, emphasizing its musculature and the sheen of its coat. This attention to equine anatomy suggests an appreciation for natural beauty and perhaps a familiarity with horses. The saddle and bridle are clearly visible, reinforcing the idea that this is not merely a depiction of a wild animal but rather one integrated into human activity.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of maternal connection and shared experience. The woman’s physical closeness to the child, combined with her protective posture, conveys a sense of nurturing and responsibility. The horse serves as a conduit for this bond, symbolizing perhaps freedom, strength, and the transmission of values across generations.
The muted color palette and soft lighting contribute to an overall feeling of warmth and nostalgia. It’s not a dramatic or overtly emotional scene; instead, it captures a quiet moment of intimacy and connection within a rural context. The blurred background directs focus onto the figures, emphasizing their relationship and suggesting that this is a private, cherished memory being preserved in time.