The Southwest finds new life in the contemporary paintings of Santa Fe artist William Haskell. Situated in the high desert terrain of the City Different, Haskell’s scenes capture the area’s unique geology, plant life and architecture in a distinctive, almost geometric style.
Dust and Tusk, acrylic on panel, 11 x 14 in.
“My work has always been an homage to the Southwest’s rugged landscapes and dramatic skies. I love portraying the vastness and solitude of the land with great energy and big colors,” says the artist.A new show called Shifting Vistas: The Art of William Haskellopens at Mark Sublette Medicine Man Gallery in Tucson, Arizona, from January 10 to February 1. An opening reception will be held the first day from 5 to 7 p.m. in the main gallery.
Thorned Elegance, acrylic on panel, 12 x 9 in.
“Mark Sublette, a big champion of my work, understands that my goal is to always move the viewer, making them feel as if they’ve been placed into the open desert plains, towering rock formations and cloud-filled horizons,” says Haskell. “Like life, actually, things are always in flux and constantly changing. I personally see that as a positive aspect of life, that we are always growing.” He adds that, because of this sentiment, he and Sublette agreed that Shifting Vistas would be the perfect title for the exhibition.
Tempest Over Sacred Ground, acrylic on panel, 14 x 18 in.
Among the new paintings that collectors can explore in the show is an acrylic titled Dusk and Tusk, depicting a javelina trekking through a craggy trail with prickly pears in the foreground. Haskell says that he’s captivated by the rugged beauty and resilience of desert life. “I’ve always been fascinated by how creatures like the javelina survive and thrive in such an unforgiving landscape, adapting to the harsh sun, sparse water and thorny plants. So it’s a wonderful symbol of strength,” he adds. “As I worked, I tried to capture the colors and textures of the desert, showing the harmony between the animal and its arid surroundings.”
Desert’s Lifeline, acrylic on panel, 20 x 16 in.
Another highlight is the storm scene Tempest Over Sacred Ground. “[This] was my way of exploring the deep connection between nature’s power and the spirit of the Southwest. I wanted to capture the raw intensity of a tornado, a force that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling, sweeping across a landscape that has been sacred to Native peoples for generations. The Native American figure represents reverence, resilience and the enduring bond between humanity and the land,” says Haskell. “I hope everyone enjoys what I’ve created with great intention.” —
Mark Sublette Medicine Man Gallery 6872 E. Sunrise Drive #130 » Tucson, AZ 85750 » (520) 722-7798 » www.medicinemangallery.com
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