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| Probing Remote Possibilities / oil on canvas/ 12x16 |
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Oh, this fellow was so elusive! I wiped off my first attempt after realizing the anatomy was not quite right. I am more pleased with this outcome and he is happy to join the other energetic equines in this series. In my last painting post, Kathryn's comment expressed a concern that I might be adding human qualities to my horses (anthropomorphism). I found that to be an interesting observation, however, that is not my intent. I realize, as with all art, each viewer may see something different and interpret the paintings in unique ways. That is what art is all about as I think the viewer adds so much to the experience of seeing what the artist has wrought. In my mind these recent paintings are totally equine but I admit they certainly are stretching their athletic abilities! Thank you for making me think about this, Kathryn!
It is another FABULOUS work, Susan!
ReplyDeleteI read your note, walked away from the computer for a while, and realized I am anthropomorphizing, or almost ... sort of ...
I always see and feel animals as having much more soul [not necessarily of the human variety] than is usually attributed to them.
Thank you very much for provoking some thought on my part!!!
Hi, Kathryn - I, too, have spent more time thinking about this and have come to realize it may be near impossible to NOT paint without some human qualities appearing. After all, no matter how hard we try, we can never really think like a horse or know what is going through their minds or how exactly they view the world. We always are interpreting their actions from a human point of view! So, consciously or not, I guess I am imbibing these equine athletes with some of my own viewpoints. Come to think of it, one of my artistic goals is to paint nature in a way that transcends appearances and expectations. Perhaps this is part of it? I always appreciate your thoughts and am happy you inspired me to look beyond the surface!
DeleteI don't think there is anything wrong with a bit of anthropomorphism, when it's all in good humour! And as someone who raises Thoroughbreds, well, you're not stretching things too much with your recent equine expressions! Keep them coming! :-)
ReplyDeleteHi, Linda - thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. I took a look at your website - what beautiful action packed work you do! Your thoroughbreds are gorgeous!
DeleteI think it's just because your horses seem to somehow have personality! I think it's amazing to be able to paint with such expression as yours - I am full of admiration and envy :0)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sandra - your words makes me very happy!
DeleteI'm so enjoying your trompin' 'round horses :) I love the fact that you paint what you want to paint, and everything is so unique. Way to go, my friend :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Gina. :)
DeleteI have 2 horses and love them very much. They are like persons for me. Your horses have characters, too.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you feel that way, Maike - many thanks!
DeleteSuch fun, Susan! I am enthralled and wonder how you come up with these horse acrobatics and the playful titles.
ReplyDeleteComing up with the titles is great fun for me - it generally happens during the course of painting. They just pop into my mind.
DeleteThis is a fantastic painting, Susan! They show so much movement and color...an excellent piece!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Hilda - they are a rather active bunch of equines!
Deleteje suis impressionnée: une composition si forte en expressions,les couleurs nous font comprendre le caractère de ce cheval bien fougueux, le mouvement est là! Beaucoup de force ressort bien de cette très belle toile!
ReplyDeleteCath.
Merci, Cath! I appreciate your kind words and the way you describe this painting. Thank you!
DeleteI am loving both the compositions and the exaggerations of anatomy. As with the ballerinas - they are BEYOND real life - and they do take on a life of their own, don't they? I can almost imagine them coming out to cavort for you while you paint and then retreat to their little barn in your storage closet until tomorrow's light is just right.... :-)
ReplyDeleteOh, yes, they truly are beyond our every day perceptions! Thank you for your observations, Debbie!
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