lrs Matthews William My Preference William Matthews

The composition presents a close-cropped view of a figure in Western attire and a horse, rendered in a muted palette dominated by earthy browns and ochres. The artist has positioned the human subject on the right side of the frame, partially obscuring their face with a wide-brimmed hat. A significant portion of the left side is occupied by the head and neck of the horse, its form blurred slightly as if in motion or captured mid-stride.
The figure’s attire – a light-colored shirt secured with a patterned tie and a characteristic cowboy hat – immediately establishes a connection to a specific cultural archetype. However, this association is complicated by the striking detail of vividly red lips, which stand out dramatically against the subdued tones of the rest of the image. This element introduces an unexpected layer of artificiality or performativity, disrupting any straightforward reading of traditional Western iconography.
The proximity between the human and animal figures suggests a relationship of intimacy or connection. The horse’s head is angled towards the figure, creating a sense of shared space and perhaps even vulnerability. Yet, the obscured face of the person prevents a clear assessment of their emotional state or intent. This ambiguity invites speculation about the nature of this bond – is it one of companionship, dominance, or something more complex?
The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation tinged with an underlying sense of mystery. The blurred background and limited color range contribute to a dreamlike quality, while the deliberate cropping focuses attention on the interaction between these two figures. It appears that the artist intends to explore themes of identity, performance, and the interplay between human and animal realms, using familiar imagery in a way that challenges conventional expectations.