Acrylic on canvas, stretched and ready to hang.

Signed certificate of authenticity.

Description:
The painting offers a stylized and contemporary interpretation of the iconic Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly.
The figure stands boldly, composed of abstract shapes and lines. His most recognizable feature—the helmet—is emphasized, evoking Sidney Nolan’s famous series of Ned Kelly paintings.
The background transitions from warm orange to deep red, perhaps symbolizing the harsh Australian landscape or the tumultuous history associated with Kelly.
The figure is surrounded by circular shapes resembling bubbles or holes, adding an element of surrealism. These circles could represent the impact of Kelly’s actions or the mysteries surrounding his legend.
Themes:
Identity and Myth: Ned Kelly embodies both historical reality and myth. His helmet becomes an emblem of defiance and rebellion.
Contemporary Expression: Max Horst’s abstraction merges Australian cultural identity with modern art styles. The painting bridges past and present.
Visual Rhythm: The rhythmic play of shapes and colors draws viewers into Kelly’s enigmatic persona.
Artistic Technique:
Horst’s use of bold lines and vivid hues creates tension and energy.
The absence of fine details invites interpretation, allowing each viewer to engage with Kelly’s legend in their own way.
This painting invites us to reimagine a notorious figure through the lens of abstraction—a dance between history and imagination.