The artwork, entitled “Colonel Earl ‘Red’ Blaik,” is an evocative portrait created by artist Frank Mason in 1986. It belongs to the Classical Realism art movement and serves as a compelling representation of the renowned football coach, Colonel Earl “Red” Blaik.
In this portrait, the figure of Colonel Earl “Red” Blaik is depicted with meticulous attention to realism and detail. He stands in a relaxed yet authoritative posture, dressed in what appears to be traditional football coach attire of his era: a dark jacket, light-colored pants, and a cap emblazoned with an “A.” His stance, with one hand on his hip, projects a sense of confidence and leadership. The artist skillfully uses light and shadow to accentuate the textures and folds of the clothing, as well as to capture the varied tonalities of the subject’s skin. The background is understated, ensuring that the focus remains firmly on the central figure. The inscription at the bottom of the artwork provides the subject’s full title and designation, further emphasizing the dignified and commemorative nature of this portrait.
