The Prayer at Valley Forge is a poignant portrayal of General George Washington during one of the most critical moments in American history. In the harsh winter of 1777-1778, amidst the immense hardships faced by the Continental Army at Valley Forge, Washington is depicted in a moment of solitary prayer, seeking guidance and strength. Friberg's use of oil paint masterfully conveys the biting cold and desolate nature of the scene. The skin on Washington’s hands and face is cracked and dry, his fingers a bulging scarlett as he clasps them tightly with resolve.  Meanwhile, a solitary beam of celestial light provides a brief respite of warmth as it breaks through the dark arboreal thicket that surrounds him, illuminating the almost audible breath of his famous mount as he exhales softly into the cold. The presence of Blueskin, Washington's faithful gray stallion, adds a layer of authenticity and emotion, serving as a silent witness to the depths of Washington's resolve. This artwork transcends the boundaries of mere historical depiction, offering a window into the soul of the man whose leadership was instrumental in the fight for American independence and who would emerge as the nation's first president. Friberg's intention was not only to recall the physical conditions of that time but to honor the spirit of perseverance and unity that Washington embodied.

Winter at Valley Forge encapsulates the resilience and determination of General George Washington and his Continental Army during one of the Revolutionary War's most testing times. Despite the extreme human conditions—the biting cold and scarcity of essentials like food, water, and warm clothing—Washington’s leadership shines through as a beacon of hope and strength. Friberg's work goes beyond the physical hardships of that winter, capturing the profound emotional depth and steadfast commitment to the cause of freedom. Within the composition a strong wind blows at Washington’s back, pushing Blueskin’s tail and mane forward, while Washington bows his head in deep contemplation of the path ahead. Friberg includes a few sparse trees dotting the frozen white landscape, communicating the lack of aid and resources of this harrowing time. Still, Washington and his horse soldier on, forging a new path through the snow. The painting vividly portrays the spirit of perseverance that led these men through adversity, with tracks in the snow symbolizing the arduous path to independence. Through this artwork, Friberg pays tribute to the enduring fight for freedom and the foundational leadership of America's first president, highlighting the authentic emotion and indomitable will that guided the nation to its future.

Portrait of Abraham Lincoln captures the essence and soul of the 16th President of the United States with profound depth. Through the expressiveness of Lincoln's eyes, the painting conveys his wisdom, compassion, and the resilience of a leader who rose from poverty to steer the nation through its most turbulent times. Inspired by the famous Gettysburg Portrait taken by Alexander Gardner just weeks before Lincoln would address the nation on that hallowed ground, Lincoln’s visage appears to emanate light, as Friberg depicts him with a steely resolve. The titular figure stands just off-center in stark contrast to the large, visible brushstrokes that populate the scene to the left, evoking a chaotic energy against which Lincoln stands stalwart and resolute. Friberg's intentionality in this piece transcends a mere historical depiction, offering a moment of reflection on the enduring values of leadership and the indomitable spirit of one of America's most revered figures.

Arnold Friberg's Forging of a Nation, which graced the cover of Liberty magazine in 1941, is a powerful depiction of America's strength and spirit of freedom. In this striking piece, Friberg reimagines Uncle Sam not as the customary slender figure, but as a robust blacksmith with bulging, veined biceps, symbolizing the might of the nation. The artwork shows Uncle Sam forging a sword, a representation of America's readiness and resilience, under the vigilant gaze of an eagle, the emblem of freedom. Friberg's commitment to authenticity is evident in every detail, from the selection of Rudolph Essmaker, the first Mr. America, as the model for Uncle Sam, to the meticulous study of eagles and blacksmithing techniques. Friberg’s attention to detail is of special note in this composition. He perfectly captures the white-hot radiating heat from the sword and anvil, haloed by crackling sparks left in the wake of the last powerful strike of the hammer. Painted at a time when almost a quarter of the American workforce was employed in manufacturing, contemporaneous viewers of this image would have been quick to associate the central action with the sounds and smells of heavy machinery that at the time was the driving economic force of the nation.  This painting is more than just art; it's a tribute to America's heritage and the enduring belief that strength is the foundation of freedom.

Friberg's Singing Cowboy radiates the joy and spirit of the American West through the vibrant portrayal of a cowboy set against a cobalt sky. Decked in his iconic 10-gallon hat, bright red bandana, and a striking green and gold pearl-buttoned shirt adorned with a starred collar, the cowboy's cheerful demeanor is infectious. Ready for the fair, he embodies the quintessential spirit of Western folklore, singing a happy tune that seems to echo the freedom and adventure of the open range. This painting was completed early in Friberg’s career, most likely in 1931. Here the artist displays his aptitude for painting hands, showing two different positions at varying depths within the composition, which aids in creating a sense of space against the flattening effects of the matte blue background. This exceptional understanding of composition creates space for the cowboy's joyful song to ring out through the painting. Friberg's talent for capturing the essence of joy and whimsy in this piece showcases his versatility as an artist, moving beyond grand historical narratives to celebrate the lighter, everyday moments of life with the same level of artistic dedication and flair.

When The Land Was His masterfully portrays a Chief, encapsulating the profound connection and the poignant sense of stewardship he holds over his ancestral lands. The Chief's rugged, stoic appearance, set against a backdrop of dark, foreboding clouds, symbolizes the looming challenges faced by his people. Friberg elects to capture the intricacies of the scene and humanity of his subject via a still moment. The Chief is unmistakably an individual and not a nameless archetypal character, unlike many Western paintings of native subjects. Friberg takes special care in this work to painstakingly capture the intricate details of the attire and accoutrement of his subject. Each turquoise bead is meticulously recreated on the horse’s headpiece, the structured buckskin saddle is studded with bronze, and one can visualize the time and care taken to produce each item using rich materials provided by the land. This painting is the result of intensive research to faithfully recreate the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the subject’s culture. Friberg's painting is a powerful visual narrative, combining the stoicism of the Chief with the delicate beauty of his heritage, offering a compelling tribute to the deep, enduring bond between the land and its inhabitants.

In Her Calf, a moment of tension and care unfolds as cowboys navigate cattle through a challenging deep-water crossing. Friberg captures a poignant scene where one cowboy, in a gesture of protection, scoops up a newborn calf to carry it safely across. This act sparks a misunderstanding with the calf's mother, yet both the cowboy and the mother cow are driven by the same noble intent: the safety of the calf. Friberg expertly captures this dramatic moment in vivid detail. You can feel the weight of the cow’s dripping river-soaked coat as she flexes her muscular neck while turning toward horse and rider. This pictorial reservoir of fluid motion is surrounded by Friberg’s emphasis on the arid, stucco-like treatment of the iron rich sand, gravel, and boulders that flank the central scene. The composition of this scene is so encompassing and vivid, that one can only imagine the hooves of the horse landing a moment later with a dusty crunch. This painting beautifully illustrates the often unseen moments of compassion and understanding between humans and animals against the backdrop of the rugged, yet majestic, natural world.

In The Light of Christ, Arnold Friberg illuminates the profound essence of Jesus's declaration from John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life." This painting celebrates the forty days following His resurrection, a period during which Jesus appeared to many, spreading hope and the promise of eternal light amidst the shadows of the world. Friberg's artistry captures the ethereal glow of the risen Christ, a symbolic representation of His divine presence and teachings. The faces of those gathered around Him are lit with a reverence and awe that reflect the transformative power of His message. Known for his exceptional attention to line and detail, Friberg softens this scene, asking the viewer to contemplate the energy and feeling of the inspirational moment rather than the particulars of the physical world.  Friberg's work transcends mere depiction; it evokes the spiritual radiance of Jesus's love and guidance, inviting viewers to feel the warmth and salvation of the "light of life" in their own hearts. Through this piece, Friberg masterfully conveys the everlasting impact of Christ's teachings on humanity, embodying the spiritual enlightenment He offers to all who seek His path.

The Night When Christ Was Born brings to life the humble and profound circumstances of the Nativity, as described in Luke 2:7. In this scene, the viewer is transported to a moment of divine humility and simplicity—the birth of Jesus in a stable, where he was laid in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Friberg's perspective as an onlooker allows us to join the modest gathering that witnessed this miraculous event: shepherds drawn by the promise of an angel, and animals, sharing their dwelling with the newborn King of Kings. Following the tradition of allegory and symbolism that has defined Christian art through the centuries, this painting subtly reminds the viewer of the important events that will follow this quiet scene. In the center of the composition, a boy dressed in a hair shirt is an unmistakable reference to John the Baptist. He holds a young lamb, symbolizing that the newborn will become the lamb of God. Standing in the background between the young John and the holy family is a rough hewn wooden frame that emerges from the hay below, creating a row of crosses that foreshadow the sacrifice to come. To the right of the composition an undefined form shrouded in darkness hangs from the arboreal post and beam, a call to the betrayal by Judas and his final act of self-destruction. Through this painting, Friberg captures the essence of the Nativity, highlighting the juxtaposition of Jesus's royal lineage with the modesty of His birthplace. It's a reminder of the Savior's accessibility and presence in the humblest of settings, inviting all to welcome Him into their hearts and homes. The artwork becomes a reflection on the themes of humility, divine love, and the universality of Jesus's message, resonating with viewers as a testament to the night that changed the world.

In Shepherds In The Field, Friberg masterfully captures the biblical scene described in Luke 2:8-9, where shepherds tending to their flock by night are visited by an angel of the Lord. The painting vividly brings to life the mixture of fear and wonder that grips the shepherds as divine glory illuminates the night sky around them. A shepherd is depicted in a moment of humble reverence, his protective arm around his son, embodying the sudden, awe-inspiring encounter with the celestial messenger. The son, shielding his eyes from the radiant light, holds a lamb close, symbolizing innocence and purity amidst the revelation of the Savior's birth. Here Friberg depicts the scene in an almost grey-scale palette, alluding to the pitch black night that surrounded the shepherds just a moment before, while including highlights of a rich golden hue on his central figures to remind the viewer of the celestial nature of the light above. Friberg's use of light and shadow not only highlights the dramatic intensity of the moment but also the profound impact of the heavenly announcement on these simple shepherds, forever changing their lives. This artwork beautifully conveys the timeless message of hope and divine wonder, inviting viewers to reflect on the significance of the nativity story.

Following The Star vividly captures the momentous journey of the three wise men, guided by a heavenly light to the birthplace of Jesus. This painting beautifully portrays the wise men atop adorned camels, navigating through the night under the guidance of the bright star. Similar to Shepherds in the Field, this composition is presented in an almost grey-scale palette, recreating the desolate darkness of the arid hills, illuminated with a rich light flecked with gold. Friberg's work is a masterful representation of the biblical narrative, emphasizing the significance of the star as a divine beacon leading to the newborn King of Kings. The artwork invites viewers into the sacred story of the Magi, who, upon finding Jesus, offer their treasures in worship, symbolizing the opening of their hearts to His divine presence. Through meticulous attention to detail and the dramatic illumination of the star, Friberg creates a compelling scene that evokes a sense of reverence and awe.

Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Friberg is a grand tribute to one of the most iconic figures of our time, encapsulating both the majesty and the enduring spirit of Queen Elizabeth II. This remarkable piece, a result of Friberg's dedicated two months at Buckingham Palace, meticulously sketching Her Majesty, her horse Centenial, and the palace's grand landscape, reflects a deep commitment to capturing the essence of the Queen. Unlike the staid, statuesque equestrian portraits of monarchs throughout European history, Friberg depicts Queen Elizabeth on the move. Her horse Centenial is perfectly captured in mid-step, while his tail deftly flourishes behind him. As one of, or possibly, the most influential figure of the 20th century, this portrait reflects the commitment she made to progress, and the steady leadership she provided, despite the turbulent events that occurred during her reign. Unveiled in 1994 at the Governor’s House in Victoria, British Columbia, the painting's impressive dimensions, 5 feet tall by 8 feet wide, command attention, yet it is  Friberg's continued devotion to perfection—his years spent adding finishing touches—that imbues the work with its soulful depth. Known as the Royal Equestrian Portrait, it beautifully commemorates Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting her grace, dignity, and the deep affection in which she is held, making it more than a painting but a piece of history itself.

This striking portrayal of the quintessential Canadian spirit is set against the majestic backdrop of towering mountain ranges and ancient pines. This artwork captures a moment of quiet vigilance as a strong, square-jawed Mountie surveys the wilderness of Canada from an elevated vantage point. Beside him stands his horse, not just a mode of transport, but a trusted companion in the solitary task of preserving peace. In this composition, Friberg displays his exceptional ability to communicate texture and weight of materials. The leather holster on the Mountie’s waist is firm yet pliable, rendered with a slight sheen as if it had been recently shined that morning before setting off. The famous red coat is expertly recreated with thick folds and a slight impasto in the brush work, deftly capturing the rough woolen fibers of the Mountie’s first line of defense against the elements.  Friberg's depiction goes beyond the physical representation of the Mountie and his horse; it delves into the deep bond between them and their shared commitment to duty amidst the vastness of the Canadian landscape. This painting is a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, symbolizing their role as guardians of the nation's natural beauty and peace.

In Mountie Watering Horse and Packhorse in Lake, Friberg beautifully captures the serene yet profound connection between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (Mounties) and the rugged Canadian wilderness they are sworn to protect. The painting presents a tranquil scene where the vastness of the landscape, with its endless blue skies and reflective waters, is momentarily intersected by the snow-capped mountains and the noble silhouette of Canada's guardians. This trio, consisting of a Mountie and his two horses—one for supplies and shelter, the other a loyal steed—embodies the essence of duty and companionship. The two horses are depicted gently interacting with the calm waters that surround them. Friberg’s mastery of depicting fluid motion is evident in the gentle waves that emanate from the light movements of both horses such that their reflections are still clear with an expertly rendered distortion in the brushwork of the wave rings. Friberg's artistic depiction is a testament to the solitude and responsibility borne by the Mounties, highlighting their deep bond with their horses as they navigate and safeguard the expansive wilds of Canada. The harmony between man and nature, underscored by the striking natural beauty and the essential roles each character plays, evokes a sense of calm and resilience that is emblematic of the Canadian spirit.

Springtime in the North offers a refreshing perspective on the familiar theme of the Mounties, this time with a special emphasis on the horse. As the spring sun filters through the trees and over the mountains, melting snow feeds into a blue brook, providing a drink for the Mountie's thirsty companion. In this piece, it is the horse that captures the viewer's attention, a testament to Friberg's unmatched ability to render the power and beauty of these treasured animals. The horse, with its well-defined muscles and lustrous coat, stands as a symbol of strength and composure as it takes a drink from the coursing brook. Friberg captures the speed and energy of the cascading water, just freed from its frozen slumber atop the mountain above. This revitalizing spring is provided to horse and rider by the abundant landscape that surrounds them as they continue to the important task at hand. Friberg's skillful portrayal of the horse, set against the backdrop of the North's awakening beauty, showcases not just the animal's majesty but also the intimate connection between the Mountie and his steed. This painting invites us to appreciate the quieter moments of connection with nature, highlighting the serene beauty of the northern wilderness as it comes to life in spring.