Roses in a Chinese Jar

It's September, so coming up on the 19th will be Pearland Art League's annual juried show. Although there are many entries this year, only thirty-two can be chosen. This is one of my entries for this year.

The Red Halter

This mule was old when he arrived, which was more than twelve years ago. Everyone calls him Mr. Bill. He bits and kicks, and he is at his best when he is trying to intimidate you with his head slung low and ears held back. You can expect this behavior when you enter his pen, so I always keep a wary eye on him.
At the time of his arrival, he was wearing the red halter, which was two sizes too small. I can only paint him in somber colors. I think that it is fitting to have the long shadows of bare tree limbs painted in grays and browns arc across his face and body.