Rooster Stephen Alcorn

The artwork presents a stylized depiction of a rooster, rendered in a distinctive woodcut aesthetic. The composition is dominated by the central figure, positioned slightly off-center and facing right. Its posture conveys a sense of alertness and perhaps even challenge; the head is tilted upward, beak open as if crowing.
The artist employed an intricate system of parallel lines to create texture and volume across the rooster’s plumage. These lines are not merely descriptive but contribute significantly to the overall decorative effect, transforming the animal into a pattern-like entity. The color palette is limited, primarily consisting of warm tones – reddish-brown for the rooster itself, contrasted with lighter shades suggesting highlights and shadows. A circular form, likely representing the sun or moon, sits behind the bird, adding depth and symbolic weight to the scene.
Below the rooster, a simplified landscape unfolds. It includes stylized foliage and what appears to be a small building, possibly a farmhouse or barn, rendered in a similar graphic style. The ground is uneven, suggesting a gently rolling terrain. A decorative border frames the entire composition, featuring an intricate pattern that echoes the linear quality of the central image.
The work’s subtexts are rooted in themes of rural life and symbolic representation. The rooster, traditionally associated with dawn, vigilance, and masculinity, takes on a heightened significance through its prominent placement and stylized presentation. It could be interpreted as representing awakening, renewal, or perhaps even a guardian figure overseeing the landscape below. The limited color scheme and repetitive linear patterns contribute to a sense of timelessness and folk tradition, suggesting a connection to cultural heritage and established symbolic language. The overall effect is one of controlled ornamentation and deliberate simplification, creating an image that is both visually striking and laden with implied meaning.