The Gift of Giving
It was such an honor this year to make gifts for some truly special people: equine veterinarians. The amazing team at Nutramax Laboratories contacted me about helping gift their clients during an annual convention, and I took my annual tradition of handmaking gifts to a whole new level.
Supporting Hurricane Helene Relief
As the devastation from Hurricane Helene continues to unfold across Western North Carolina, we are committed to doing our part in supporting relief efforts. Our company has partnered with key organizations, including Labyrinth Solutions, 68 Medical, and Moore Equine, to raise essential funds and provide aid to those in need.
Originals vs Prints: How to Tell the Difference
In the vast world of art, the line between original masterpieces and fine art prints can sometimes seem as delicate as a painter's brush stroke. To the untrained eye, they might appear indistinguishable, but look closely and you'll uncover the subtle nuances that set them apart. In this guide we'll explore the secrets that separate fine art prints from original paintings, dive into the intricacies of open edition and limited edition prints, and unveil what makes original art and limited edition prints so collectible.
When Dreams Come True
I hope that the Practical Horseman Painted Saddles project serves as an inspiration for you to embark on your own creative ventures. From collaborating with Practical Horseman and Stubben to witnessing Olympic riders Will Coleman and Boyd Martin sign the saddles I painted, my time at the 2023 Kentucky Three-Day Event was nothing short of extraordinary. It felt like a dream, and I'm immensely grateful to everyone who made this experience unforgettable.
A Brush with Greatness
Do you believe in serendipity? I had never thought about it much, but after this year, I'm convinced it's real. The whole experience of painting Will Coleman's saddle was an emotional rollercoaster, proof that incredible opportunities can come when you least expect them.
Let’s Do It Live
While each project has helped me grow more comfortable with sharing my personal art, I've never had the opportunity to invite people to watch me paint - until now! Recently, I had the great honor of being the artist in residence at the Carolina International CCI & Horse Trial, held from March 16-19 2023, where I painted in real-time at the Carolina Club.
Where Liberty Dwells: A Painted Pony
Moore County boasts a remarkable sense of community that sets it apart. One shining example of this is the annual fundraiser for the Carolina Horse Park – the Painted Ponies project. This initiative brings together local businesses and artists to create stunning public art, all in support of this equestrian nonprofit. Each life-size fiberglass horse is sponsored by a local business and masterfully painted by a talented artist.
Celebrating the Warrior Spirit
The real Sergeant Reckless is a hero, and I added a special symbol to the painted horse who shares her name. In the realm of equestrian lore, some horses bear a rare and revered marking known as a 'blooded shoulder.' This distinctive trait is particularly associated with gray horses, and it holds a special place in certain equestrian circles. While the real-life Sergeant Reckless was a brown chestnut, I have artistically adapted the red stripes of the American flag. A broad red stripe flows gracefully over Reckless’s shoulder, imbuing it with symbolic significance.
Sergeant Reckless Actual
In my creative process, inspiration often springs from extraordinary stories that resonate with my deepest passions and interests. This is the remarkable story of Sergeant Reckless, a Korean racehorse turned real-life war hero, a tale that mirrors the spirit of our finest military members and decorated veterans.
Honoring Gold Star Families
When you look at "Sergeant Reckless," you may notice a star on her face, and it's not just for adornment. This gold star represents service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during times of conflict. Reckless proudly bears this star as a tribute to the families who have borne the weight of that sacrifice for the cause of freedom and defense of the United States.
Painting a Pony
Have you ever held a dream so profound that it both exhilarated and intimidated you? For me, that dream was sharing my art with the world. In 2021, I summoned the courage to step into the spotlight of a public local fundraiser, embarking on a journey of self-expression and artistic exploration.
Where it All Began
A Lifelong Obsession: How Horses Ignited a Passion
In an instant, everything changed... it all unfolded at the quaint riding stable nestled near my elementary school.