"The entire time I was working on this painting, I was thinking about the vanishing way of life of the cowboy. Phil Bidegain is one of the owners of the T-4 ranch and the president of the NM Cattlegrowers. There is a lot of symbolism in this painting. The clouds and storm in the background - troubled times. The ray of light - hope. The rider out front sitting tall and straight in the saddle - head up looking to see the future. He is surrounded by light, but also bushes of mesquite thorns representing the daily challenges. The cattle are highlighted with a golden glow, which is their wealth. Phil is out front of the herd with his loyal hands leading them all "On To Better Pastures".