Record-Setter, Go-Getter

Ok, I dont watch you at this point, so im not exactly familiar with this style, but I can give you an overall critique based on what I see. I know this entry is for a very big and very important show, so critique and constructive criticism are important.

Im going to start off with the Vision. How the image looks to me. The overall look of this image is more so on the dull side of the scale as far as liveliness goes. Brighter/more vibrant colours and action in the background will give an image more life. I myself and guilty of this kind of image. Stronger shading / more contrast would give a little more pop. This is a nice image, it just needs some stronger shading/contrast in my opinion.

When it comes to originality, I gave you a 5. There are a few reasons for this. The pose itself, is a very, VERY common one and can get very boring very quickly. I know that it is hard to get creative on barrel entries because theres on so many ways you can draw a horse running a barrel. It can be very exhausting. Past this, there are a few things that I love about this image. First, the score board in the background. I have never seen that and it really caught my attention. Very original and creative. You gave the ridges in the barrel where the colours meet, I like that. Its more realistic. My last point here, is the way you arranged the information was creative. Most only show the time and/or the run number.

Youre technique is more on the realistic side than others Ive seen. But let me give you some pointers using this piece. Your attention to detail is very keen. Its nice to look at. Well done. You have made sure that size comparison seems to flow. Most people overlook this. Even I do sometimes. Your grass looks good. Youre dirt looks like dirt, but is still has a spray-painted on look to it. I would suggest using a 3-colour palette. a light - a medium - a dark. medium shade on bottom, dark in the middle, and light on top. Make sure not to overdo it though. I have a brush to recommend, if youre interest, contact me. Where the time is on the board, in my opinion, would have looked better blurred. This, with a bigger spray of dirt, may have given it more of a quick, action shot feel to it. Maybe even blurring the background. Also, the shadow on the barrel is usually on the same side as the horse, because the horse/rider usually block the light thats reaching the barrel.

The overall impact of the image is not as high as I would like to see as a judge, but the overall feel of the image is pleasant. Its nice to look at and there are no conflicts that I can tell. It is well composed, just needs a little polish is all. Thank you for sharing your art with us and hope to see more in the future.

Sincerely,
J. Anthony