The Outlaw

In this Mackenzie Thorpe limited edition print for sale, three children dressed as cowboys suspiciously stand together in front of a stone wall. The central figure wears a red bandana around his face, one of Thorpe’s signature and most recognizable colors. His hands are behind his back as if he has something to hide. The figure on the left holds a toy gun and stands with his trusty spotted dog. On the right, a broken glass bottle is on the ground and the child wearing a cow print vest has his hand on his gun, ready to draw.

Some of Thorpe’s favorite childhood memories are of growing up in Northern England and playing American cowboys in the streets of his neighborhood. These figures appear to be young boys dressed up as cowboys, living in their playful world of imagination. The nearly blank faces suggest that the viewers are meant to see themselves, or someone they know, as the figures. Our imaginations can run wild. Are they children playing dress up in their cowboy costumes or are they in the wild west, getting ready to break up a fight?

The cowboys are dressed plainly, in simple clothing with patterned bandanas or bolo ties and classic hats. They seem surprised, as if the viewer has caught them in the middle of something. All of the figures are drawn in Thorpe’s iconic style, with big feet and sturdy shoes, to remind us to keep our feet firmly planted and to stay grounded. The soft sepia tones of the sunset in the background create a warm environment for these friends.

This Mackenzie Thorpe artwork, along with several others in the cowboy series, is available for purchase at Marcus Ashley Gallery in Lake Tahoe. With over 18 years of business and 40+ artists on exhibit, Marcus Ashley Gallery is one of Lake Tahoe’s premier fine art destinations. In addition to outstanding customer service, Marcus Ashley offers custom framing, private home shows for clients within 60 miles and worldwide shipping.