2023 Coeur d’Alene Art Auction / Lot 116
116
Don Oelze (b. 1965)
Fall Comes Early (2023)
oil on canvas
44 × 46 inches
55 × 57 × 4.5 inches (framed)
signed lower left
The artist writes, “Against a backdrop of majestic mountains, two Native American riders on horseback, clad in winter coats, traverse a treeless hill of grass and sage. The autumn hues of gold, amber, and crimson serve as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life, echoing the impermanence of the seasons and the relentless passage of time. The riders possess a deep understanding of their environment, recognizing that the shortness of fall will soon yield to a harsh and unforgiving winter. Yet, their faces betray no trace of fear or uncertainty, embodying a quiet strength and resilience in the face of nature’s challenges, showcasing the coexistence between humanity and the natural world.”