IS1 128 Celia Mitchell 01 Celia Mitchell

The canvas presents a scene of rural activity, dominated by a group engaged in what appears to be a fox hunt. A pack of hounds occupies the foreground, their forms rendered with energetic brushstrokes that convey movement and a sense of collective purpose. Above them, three figures on horseback are positioned across the middle ground, clad in bright red hunting attire which sharply contrasts against the surrounding landscape. The riders appear focused forward, suggesting an active pursuit rather than a posed gathering.
The background is characterized by dense foliage displaying autumnal hues – fiery oranges and reds – which contribute to a feeling of warmth and abundance. These colors are echoed in the clothing of the hunters, creating visual harmony while simultaneously emphasizing their presence within the natural environment. The trees are loosely painted, lacking precise detail, which directs attention towards the central action unfolding in the foreground.
The composition is structured vertically, with the riders arranged along a diagonal line that leads the eye from left to right. This arrangement creates a dynamic flow and reinforces the sense of forward momentum inherent in the hunt. The artist’s use of impasto – thickly applied paint – adds texture and physicality to the scene, particularly noticeable in the depiction of the horses coats and the foliage.
Subtleties within the painting suggest an exploration of themes beyond a simple representation of sport. The vibrant colors and energetic brushwork evoke a sense of privilege and leisure associated with traditional rural pursuits. The scale of the hounds relative to the figures on horseback hints at the power dynamics inherent in such activities, where nature is manipulated for human entertainment. While seemingly celebratory, the scene also carries undertones of control over the natural world, prompting reflection on humanity’s relationship with its environment and the traditions that shape it.