Locking Horns

(SOLD)

 

"Locking Horns" is one of the most dynamic and cinematic paintings I’ve created to date. After finishing Beyond Their Reach, I asked myself, “What if I painted another train scene, but this time from the opposite perspective?” Instead of a high vantage point, I placed the viewer low to the ground, emphasizing the power and speed of the train as it barrels forward.

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This perspective doesn’t just showcase scale—it puts the viewer in a vulnerable position, with the train and thundering hooves charging straight toward them. The overwhelming force of both man and machine creates a sense of urgency, reinforcing the aggressiveness of the chase.

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The wide format, reminiscent of the 16:9 ratio in film, enhances the cinematic feel. My goal was to make the train feel as if it’s breaking out of the canvas, intensifying the impact.

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The train’s bold red color heightens the tension. Red is often linked to action and danger, making it the perfect choice for this pursuit. The scene, framed by towering saguaros, is set somewhere in Arizona, immersing the viewer in the heat and dust of the desert.

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This piece is framed in a high-end, hand-carved, gold-leafed frame by Mayen Olson (CA), complementing its energy and movement.