lrsNowlinBC-LookingIn B C Nowlin

The composition presents a procession of mounted figures moving across a seemingly boundless plane. Here we observe a group of riders on horseback, their forms rendered with broad brushstrokes and a limited palette dominated by warm tones – ochre, amber, and russet – punctuated by accents of teal and crimson. The figures are not sharply defined; instead, they appear as stylized silhouettes against the backdrop of an indistinct horizon. Each rider carries a flag or banner, adding a sense of formality and purpose to their movement.
A striking feature is the mirrored reflection that occupies the lower half of the canvas. This duplication creates a visual doubling effect, amplifying the sense of scale and extending the perceived distance of the procession. The reflections are not exact copies; they are distorted by the rippling surface beneath, suggesting an element of instability or illusion.
The overall impression is one of ritualistic movement within a landscape that feels both expansive and somewhat dreamlike. The lack of specific detail regarding the riders’ attire or the environment fosters ambiguity – their identities remain undefined, and the location could be anywhere. This deliberate vagueness invites contemplation on themes of journey, procession, and perhaps even the cyclical nature of time as suggested by the mirrored imagery.
The artists use of color contributes significantly to the painting’s mood. The warm hues evoke a sense of heat or intensity, while the limited palette creates a feeling of unity and cohesion. The bold brushstrokes lend an energetic quality to the scene, contrasting with the stillness implied by the procession itself. It is possible to interpret this work as a meditation on tradition, spectacle, or the human desire for progress within a larger, perhaps unknowable, context.