North Platte Winter Frank Howell

Here we observe a figure rendered in pastel and charcoal, set against a stark, monochromatic backdrop that suggests a wintry landscape. The composition is dominated by the central presence of what appears to be an individual wrapped in heavy garments, their form elongated and somewhat abstracted. A dark headdress obscures much of the face, leaving only a suggestion of features – notably, a shadowed eye that gazes downwards with an expression difficult to decipher.
The artist employed a limited palette, primarily consisting of muted pinks, browns, and grays, which contribute to the overall sense of coldness and isolation. The application of pastel is loose and expressive; strokes are visible, creating a textural quality that evokes both fragility and resilience. Lines of charcoal, particularly on the left side of the composition, appear almost like streaks of wind or snow, further reinforcing the winter theme.
The figure’s posture conveys a sense of weariness or contemplation. The shoulders are slightly slumped, and the body seems to be leaning forward, as if burdened by an unseen weight. This physical stance could symbolize emotional hardship, resilience in the face of adversity, or perhaps a connection to ancestral burdens.
Subtly, theres a tension between the figure’s vulnerability – suggested by the exposed skin visible beneath the heavy cloak and the downward gaze – and their apparent strength, embodied in the upright posture and the protective nature of the headdress. The framing border adds another layer; its stark contrast with the soft tones within emphasizes the isolation of the individual against a larger, undefined world.
The work seems to explore themes of identity, endurance, and the relationship between humanity and the natural environment. It is not merely a depiction of winter but rather an exploration of the emotional landscape associated with it – one marked by solitude, introspection, and a quiet dignity in the face of hardship.