Original Painting titled “The Final Lap, Navajo Horse Race” [SOLD]

"The Final Lap, Navajo Horse Race" is an original painting by Myron Denetclaw, a talented young Diné of the Navajo Nation artist whose work is heavily influenced by early Diné traditionalists. With this piece, the viewer is given a front row seat for an exhilarating horse race, as well as a detailed look at each of its participants. Denetclaw's work with this piece is exceptional, as always.

Denetclaw provides a detailed description of his painting: "Long ago, people enjoyed the thrill of horse races in open gatherings, such as fairs, intermissions of ceremonies, and, very often, as a venture for gambling. It was a showcase of horsemanship and, at times, an exuberant and action-filled entertainment. In this painting, the horse race has commenced during a large ceremonial gathering. This scene follows three Navajo participants reaching the finish line at full speed. They all have a stern focus toward the finish line ahead. The first figure, with an elaborate set of horse tack and jewelry from previous winnings, is falling behind. The central figure seems to be catching up. And the figure in the back is closing in on the finish line, with his determined look that he will win. Note the last two riders have no proper horse tack, except their fine silver bridles; they placed the wager against the ample contender's odds. Above the participants are the sacred cloud people, symbolically gifting the ceremonial site with rain while witnessing the action below them. Near the center of the painting is the sun deity. He, too, is joyfully watching."

The painting is signed Denetclaw in lower right. It is framed under two layers of matting in red and tan tones, in a wide wood frame.

Myron Denetclaw (1999- ) is a Diné of the Navajo Nation painter who was born in Shiprock, New Mexico. He resides in Shiprock with his family. His maternal clan is Táchiiníí, and his paternal clan is Hooghanłání. Denetclaw paints in the style of traditional Diné painters Harrison Begay and Beatien Yazz. He also cites the naturalism of Bob Ross as an influence. Denetclaw has received awards and accolades for his paintings, including Best of Show awards from a variety of respectable institutions. Denetclaw is currently studying studio arts at Diné College in Shiprock.

Condition: original condition

Provenance: this Original Painting titled "The Final Lap, Navajo Horse Race" is from the artist

Recommended Reading: NAVAJO PAINTING by Katherin Chase

TAGS: Native American Painting, Diné of the Navajo Nation, Dorothy Dunn, Harrison Begay, Beatien Yazz, San Ildefonso, Myron Denetclaw, Diné Painter