O.K. Corral

This Mackenzie Thorpe limited edition print for sale is part of the artist’s ongoing cowboy series. A trio of larger than life cowboys stand against a plain white background as if they just stepped off of a movie set. The central figure appears to be the sheriff as he has a badge and is standing with his hands on his hips in an authoritative manner. The two figures flanking him have their hands on their guns, ready to draw at a moment’s notice. Each man is wearing a traditional cowboy hat and unique accessories. Their moustaches and bolo ties give them a playful touch to a potentially intimidating situation.

The original “O.K. Corral” was a gunfight that took place in what is now Tombstone, Arizona. It was dramatized and made into a hollywood film, the “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” in the 1950s. The shootout has come to represent a period of the American Old West when the frontier was virtually an open range for outlaws. They were largely unopposed by law enforcement officers who were spread very thin over large territories. This period of American history is often what is seen in Western movies.

Some of Thorpe’s favorite childhood memories are of growing up in Northern England and playing American cowboys in the streets of his neighborhood. He often likes to revisit the cowboy series as it’s a nostalgic reminder of his childhood. The cowboy offered a playful world of imagination, adventure, and escape for him. He fondly remembers watching the American and “Spaghetti” westerns that were so popular at the time on his knob turn tv that only received a few channels.

This artwork is particularly interesting in Thorpe’s collection as the vibrant colors that he usually paints with are missing. The figures are just drawn in black pigment against a white background, giving the piece a graphic composition and almost a comic book or blockbuster poster feel. The figures are faceless, as the viewer is meant to picture himself as the main character. We are instantly transported back to a time where our imaginations could run wild.

This Mackenzie Thorpe artwork is available for sale at the Marcus Ashley Gallery in Lake Tahoe. The cowboy seems to fit perfectly with the western aesthetic that can be seen in our region. Marcus Ashley Gallery is one of Lake Tahoe’s premier fine art galleries, situated in Heavenly Village’s bustling shopping district. The gallery has been locally owned and operated for 18 years, providing luxury customer service, as well as any recommendations for upcoming community events.