The artwork titled “Shock and Awe” was created by the artist Richard Hamilton in 2008. This piece falls within the genre of portraiture, capturing a figure set against a dramatic backdrop.
The artwork presents a male figure standing confidently with both hands resting on the grips of two holstered pistols, one on each side of his waist. The individual is dressed in a Western-style outfit consisting of a maroon shirt with tan panels, denim jeans with protective chaps, and black cowboy boots. The background features a dramatic, almost apocalyptic sky with a blend of dark and fiery hues, adding intensity to the composition. The subject’s facial expression conveys a sense of determination and sternness, enhancing the overall impact of the portrait.