I have been meaning to paint this scene for a while. The inspiration comes from the Wingham Rodeo in outback NSW, Australia where I try to go every January while visiting my in-laws in a nearby town called Taree.
There is something dramatic and theatrical about the rodeo to a city slicker like me - the hats, boots and flamboyant outfits, contrasting with the solemn faces, postures and gait of the protagonists, the focus and composure against the energy and chaos of the arena. I love the stillness and tension in this picture, just before the gate opens up.
The figures and faces in this painting were a nice challenge for me, after lots of landscape and architecture work.
This painting was exhibited at the 2024 Sydney Easter Royal Arts and Crafts Show.