Equine Dance II Gary Benfield

The artwork presents a dynamic composition centered around figures that appear to be both human and equine in nature. Here we see a central female figure, her posture suggesting movement and perhaps even a degree of vulnerability as she is surrounded by several horses. The artist has rendered the scene with loose, gestural strokes, creating an impression of fluidity and energy.
The color palette is dominated by warm earth tones – ochres, browns, and reds – which contribute to a sense of vitality and primal power. These hues are applied in layers, allowing for a subtle interplay of light and shadow that enhances the figures three-dimensionality. The background appears indistinct, almost dissolving into the surrounding colors, further emphasizing the central group’s motion.
The artist has employed a technique that blurs the lines between human and animal forms. This ambiguity suggests a subtext concerning interconnectedness – perhaps an exploration of shared instincts or a symbolic representation of humanitys relationship with nature. The horses are not depicted as docile creatures; their postures convey a sense of wildness and untamed spirit, which contrasts with the apparent fragility of the female figure.
The composition’s verticality reinforces this feeling of upward movement and aspiration. It is possible to interpret the work as an allegory for transformation or liberation – a visual narrative where the human form finds strength and agency through its connection with the natural world. The overall effect is one of intense emotion, capturing a fleeting moment of interaction between individuals and forces beyond their control.