ROBERT SUMMERS (American, b. 1940). Breaking Camp, 1974. Oil on canvas. 24 x 36 inches (61.0 x 91.4 cm). Signed and date...

Description

ROBERT SUMMERS (American, b. 1940)
Breaking Camp, 1974
Oil on canvas
24 x 36 inches (61.0 x 91.4 cm)
Signed and dated lower right: Robert Summers / © 1974

Artist Robert Summers holds a unique distinction in the city of Dallas, Texas. He has created the most photographed site in the city, and it has nothing to do with John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Located in a city park in front of Dallas City Hall is Summers's larger than life-size homage to the western traditions of Texas. His sculpture Pioneer Plaza Trail Drive is composed of 40 bronze steers and three mounted cowboys that are spread out over a 2.8 acre site. Summers, who began developing his talent as an artist at a very early age, was chosen for the task of creating the sculpture due to his success in creating images, both in painting and sculpture, that were drawn from the ranching and cattle driving traditions of Texas. A resident of Glen Rose, Summers still draws his inspiration from the ranchers and cowboys of his home territory.

First hand observation and innate talent have always been the tools that Summers has drawn on. He has had little formal education in the arts, but has developed the talent to utilize many different artistic techniques and media including oils, watercolor, egg tempera, acrylic, pastel, and sculpting clay. Breaking Camp shows Summers at his best in depicting a western scene from historic Texas. Several cowboys are shown preparing to meet the day's work. It is not clear what tasks the day will bring, but these cowboys are armed and prepared to meet whatever comes their way. The dark palette reflects the early morning hour, and the darkness is subtly offset by the use of a few select colors. The overall feeling evoked is one of quiet anticipation of what the day will bring.


More information about ROBERT SUMMERS. See also: Summers, Robert, Robert Summers Artist.

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