Isthmus 2019

"Isthmus" (2019) by Bo Bartlett (b. 1955) depicts a solitary cow reclining on a narrow strip of land surrounded by water. The cow's reflection is prominently featured in the still water, creating a sense of solitude and contemplation. Bartlett's realist style emphasizes the animal's physicality and the serene, yet melancholic atmosphere, characteristic of his work. The painting invites viewers to ponder the cow's isolation and the philosophical implications of the "isthmus," a narrow land bridge connecting two larger landmasses. The "Isthmus" offers viewers a chance to reflect on themes of isolation, connection, and the passage of time.