The Fragility of Life

A short time ago I had occassion to visit the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Wild Mustang facility outside of Reno. It was horrifying, heartbreaking and completely senseless. I left with a great saddness in my heart. The magnicient mustangs were robbed of all magnificence, dignity, heart and spirit. They were crowded into large holding areas or tiny, filthy pens. I have no idea why this is done or what really happens to these incredible horses. I am afraid to know. I wanted to paint something that shows how fragile life is and how this kind of behavior might lead to the complete eradication of wild mustangs in the United States. The animals in my painting are loosely based on extinct horses - probably more imaginary than anatomically correct. Nonetheless, they no longer exist and I find that so very sad.

Ballerina #4

20x16 oil on linen panel - a redo of an earlier ballerina study. And I have included a close up photo of the face.

Ballerina #3

My favorite so far of the ballerina series. This one is 16x20 oil on linen and I am especially pleased with the choice of color for the background. It completes her and she feels as I had envisioned her. A happy painting day today!

Giraffes in Interior - Untitled

Great fun to conceptualize and to paint! Oil on linen 20x16.

Profile Portrait

A profile portrait done this afternoon. Experimenting with a very limited palette, dark skin tones, and lots of other stuff that is swirling around in my mind as I paint. It looks like the beginning of this new year is going to be a time of stretching myself and trying new things. Oil on canvas 14x11.

Kent Reno Reference

Kent Reno is an American photographer who died in September of 2011 at the age of 78. I first saw this particular photo many years ago and it has stayed in my mind. Tonight it inspired me to do a little experimentation and I thought I would post the results. This is 12x12 oil on canvas. Art is a journey and each step along the way brings greater knowledge of self, medium and intent. I am quite happy with how this turned out.

Homage to Degas

Happy New Year - may it be safe and filled with glorious fun, excitement and lots of inspired art! And thank you to all who have supported my art and my struggle to be a better artist each day by visiting my blog and posting your encouraging comments. Each one is deeply considered and greatly appreciated.

Today I had ballerinas and horses on my mind and decided to paint this tribute to one of my favorite artists, one who continually inspires me and gives me great joy. This is oil on canvas board 18x14. Thanks for looking!