Bold and Beautiful Lesley Harrison

The artwork presents a striking contrast between a powerful equine figure and a vibrant, almost hallucinatory landscape. Here we see a black horse in mid-stride, its musculature clearly defined, suggesting both strength and controlled energy. The animals head is turned towards the viewer, conveying an impression of alertness and perhaps even defiance. Its dark coat absorbs light, creating a stark silhouette against the backdrop.
The background is dominated by a field of what appear to be poppies or similar red flowers, rendered in broad strokes that suggest movement and abundance. Above this floral expanse lies a sky painted with swirling hues of red, yellow, and green – a palette far removed from naturalistic representation. The colors are intense and somewhat unsettling, contributing to an overall atmosphere of heightened emotion.
The composition is framed by dark borders, which serve to isolate the central figure and intensify its presence. This framing technique draws the viewers attention directly to the horse, emphasizing its solitary nature within this unusual environment.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of freedom and untamed spirit. The horse’s dynamic pose suggests a rejection of constraint, while the surreal landscape hints at an inner world or a dreamlike state. The color choices – particularly the use of red – could symbolize passion, danger, or even revolution. The contrast between the dark, solid form of the animal and the fluid, chaotic background might represent a struggle between order and chaos, or perhaps the individual’s resilience in the face of overwhelming forces. Ultimately, the work evokes a sense of mystery and invites contemplation on the relationship between the natural world, inner experience, and the power of the individual spirit.