Highground 1973 John Clymer

The artwork presents a wintry mountain landscape dominated by a group of bighorn sheep. Here we observe a clear emphasis on the animals struggle and adaptation within their harsh environment. The foreground is occupied by a ram in mid-stride, seemingly leaping across a snow-covered slope. His posture conveys both power and urgency, suggesting an active pursuit or escape. Behind him, three other sheep follow at a more measured pace, navigating the uneven terrain with a cautious grace.
The artist has rendered the landscape with meticulous detail, particularly regarding the texture of the snow and the sparse vegetation clinging to the hillside. The muted palette – primarily whites, grays, and browns – reinforces the sense of coldness and isolation inherent in the scene. A distant mountain range is visible through a hazy atmosphere, providing depth and scale but remaining indistinct, further emphasizing the immediate foreground and the animals’ presence within it.
The composition directs the viewers eye along a diagonal line from the leaping ram towards the receding sheep and then to the background mountains. This creates a sense of movement and spatial recession. The artist has skillfully used light to highlight the contours of the animals, making them stand out against the snowy backdrop.
Subtly, the painting speaks to themes of resilience and survival. The bighorn sheep, symbols of ruggedness and independence, are portrayed as masters of their domain, demonstrating an ability to thrive in a challenging environment. There is a quiet dignity in their struggle, suggesting a profound connection between these creatures and the land they inhabit. The absence of human presence contributes to this sense of wildness and self-sufficiency, allowing the viewer to contemplate the raw beauty and inherent power of nature.