RIDIN THE CONCRETE OUT
The Metroplex is not only knocking on my front door but also inside my head now. It does not stop. My teeth click together with the rhythm of the never ceasing tires
on the asphalt out front. In the static of the noise, my broken brain tries to piece together an old song from a life that belonged to someone else. Something about a
low wine bottle. Something about watching for the snow. I try to hum the chorus—ridin' the storm out—but the gears shift and snap the melody like a bone against
steel. I try to think back again, to a time I was looking out at the range under a full moon, I could say it and mean it - I wasn't missing a thing. The house was a
fortress. But that was a long time ago. We were riding the storm out. But now the storm that came wasn't made of wind and snow. This time it is made of concrete.
Art by John Stroud — Western oil paintings
Selected Works
"Sunset on the Mesa" — A wide, luminous landscape capturing the mesa rim as dusk settles. Thick impasto for highlights; subtle glazing for depth in the distant buttes.
"Last Light, Cattle Drive" — Figures and horses silhouetted against a low sun. Emphasis on gesture and economy of stroke to convey motion.
"Homestead Winter" — A quiet, tonal study of a ranch house under fresh snow. Cool blues and warm underpainting give the scene restrained warmth.
Commissions
I accept commissioned oil paintings of Western landscapes, ranch scenes, and equine subjects. Commissions are completed on stretched canvas with oil on linen or cotton, depending on size and preference. Typical process:
Initial consultation (subject, size, reference images, and preferred mood).
Sketch and color study for approval.
Final painting with progress photos at key stages.
Framing options and delivery/shipping arrangements.
Pricing and Availability
Prices depend on size, complexity, and framing. Small studies (up to 12" x 16") start at a modest rate; larger works and complex compositions are priced accordingly. Contact for current availability and lead times.
Care and
horse & cowboy with red stripe short
HiYoSilver Oil 12x12
frame
Throwing the chain Oil 16x14