Mystical Horses 11 Native Horses Laurel Burch

The artwork presents a procession of equine figures moving from left to right across the composition. These animals are not rendered in a naturalistic style; instead, they appear as stylized representations constructed from geometric shapes and vibrant color fields. The artist has employed a flattened perspective, eliminating depth cues and creating a sense of immediacy.
Each horse is delineated by angular planes, with triangular and trapezoidal forms defining their bodies and heads. This fragmentation lends them an almost abstract quality while still retaining recognizable equine characteristics. A striking feature is the use of contrasting colors – yellows against purples, reds against greens – which heighten the visual impact and contribute to a feeling of dynamism. The color palette isnt uniform; each animal possesses its own distinct arrangement of hues, suggesting individuality within the group.
A decorative border frames the scene. This frame consists of a series of repeating geometric patterns in turquoise and red, further emphasizing the stylized nature of the work and creating a sense of enclosure or ritualistic space. The inscription along the bottom edge suggests a signature and date, anchoring the image to a specific time and creator.
The arrangement of the horses implies movement and purpose. They appear to be engaged in a journey or procession, their forward momentum accentuated by the diagonal alignment across the canvas. This could symbolize themes of migration, spiritual quest, or collective identity. The stylized depiction of the animals might also allude to a symbolic representation of power, freedom, or connection to nature – qualities often associated with horses in various cultural narratives.
The overall effect is one of controlled energy and visual complexity. While the subject matter is recognizable as horses, their abstracted form invites contemplation on broader themes of identity, movement, and the interplay between natural forms and artistic interpretation.