Contest of Wills

17.5" x 25"

Fresh off the easel...."Contest of Wills" is my latest in graphite/charcoal work.  This is my son Elijah in the black hat and his friend Kelton endeavoring to overturn the steer.  Were they successful?  I bet they eventually were!  What I enjoyed portraying in this work was the struggle involved shown in the directional alignment of the boys' bodies.  Juxtapose that with the firm planting of the steer's feet in oppostion.  Lots of energy depicted here, but it is not going anywhere fast!

Art is metaphorical.  Not only does this drawing highlight a popular event in rodeo, but it speaks to life as well.  We all find ourselves engaged in a variety of struggles.  Often they endure for extended periods of time.  The point is to not give in, but to find the struggle itself a  noble opportunity in developing character, and to find a grace greater than the struggle available to help.  How we deal with struggles shapes who we are.  I hope this drawing helps viewers gain perspective on their own struggles and encourages them to stay strong in the endeavor!

Be strong and courageous!