The Captive

Chiriacka is a painter of western scenes reminiscent of the well-known late-nineteenth century western frontier paintings of Remington and Russell. The artist's style, while influenced by these artists, reveals other origins as well. The whitened palette is similar to the light-filled colors of the Impressionist painters and the sketchiness of his brushstroke may reflect the influence of American artists such as Robert Henri. Chiriacka creates a dramatic sense of tension in his composition through the juxtaposition of the severe stoicism of the captured Native American and the uneasiness of the guard following him.