
This painting was painted from a scene from a recent trip to Lewistown MT. A quiet moment between a young rider, her mother and a gentle horse. The little girl is our grand daughter, a favorite subject. I took so many photos that trip I didn't much think of it till I got home, but something touched me about this scene once I looked at the photos. I knew I had to paint it. Emily tentative on the back of such a powerful animal, and both mother and daughters calming touch. To me it shows a perfect balance between power and respect and trust. Life's lessons, and right in front of us.
This was painted on Arches cold press 140# with Daniel Smith watercolors. I've long enjoyed the works of western artists, and this painting was a great experience. I loved the blues of the saddle blanket and the tone of the clothes against the browns of the horse; but after I was finished with the painting I still felt something was missing. I splashed some Cerulean Blue on the horse for effect and I think that balanced the color of the picture along with the scene.
This one hangs in my studio, and will never be sold. Some paintings for me just feel right, and this one felt great from the first brushstroke to the last.
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