The Carrot 36x48 Oil on Canvas Sold
I am fascinated by all types of animals, wild and tame. Every one of them is a creation assembled with extreme care and genius. I can see in their eyes that they all have a history or story to tell and I often think about what they would say if speech between us was possible. I find it fascinating that different species of animals can outnumber us and yet they do not try to control us. I am amazed how some of these animals could tear us limb by limb and yet attacks by these wild beasts are rare. In Genesis 9:2 God tells us that He has put the fear and terror of us in all beasts and explains to us that He has placed them into our care. In general, this is why most animals, big or small, run from us when we call out to them. So why then do we kill them, leave their meat to rot and take only the trophy? Why do we push them out of their homes and into strange lands? Why are we so eager to conquer these animals? In my own strange way I find these intentions similar to someone dangling a carrot in front of a grizzly's face. Doing something like this ignoring the grizzly's personal space, showing them we do not care for them. Do we really expect the grizzly to run from us? What do you think you would see if you looked into his eyes at this moment? If we are so rebellious that we do not do what is asked of us, care for these animals, then should we really expect the animals to fear us?
This painting is a result from my fascination with animals and is actually a self portrait of me and my family. I do not intentionally harm the animals nor do I badger them, but I do adventure out into their homes and lands. I sketch them and photograph them while they are out doing their private family things together. I often wonder if this is morally wrong and if it upsets the animals. I pray I never get that question answered when I'm out sketching a bear or a moose. I dont bring carrots with me, but if I ever did they can have em!
Does anyone recognize the statue in the painting? Let me know who you think it is and why I chose to depict it. The painting got it's name from the central figure in front of the bear. This depicts me as I dangle a carrot from a fishing pole in front of the bear. The bear is so big because when you come across them, alone, in their land this is how big they feel to me. In most of my big paintings I place a number 7. This paintings number is on the base of the statue. And one last note, be careful around the animals. Try picking a fight with a raccoon and see who wins. Raccoons are small and bears, cats, things with horns are a lot bigger. Buy a zoom lens, it's cheaper!
I'm an artist, a hiker, a search and rescue professional, and a lover of animals.
-Larry
2 comments:
Very interesting and beautiful
I have this one hanging in my living room, and every time I walk by it, it is a new painting. I find my mood really sets my tone for how I perceive it. When I am upset, the bear is inquisitive. When I am homesick, it's brows almost curl up in sympathy.
Perhaps it's because this bear has become part of my imaginary family. I feel responsible for him, just like the man with the carrot on a fishing pole. The eyes are so deep.
I've loved this painting since the day I saw it. And like all things magical, I can't even name this bear. I even have a name for my car! But this bear is so ethereal and spiritual to me, it rocks me to my soul.
Thank you for such a wonderful gift, Larry!
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