When Dreams Come True

My Journey to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event

Artist Larissa Ann stands with the saddles she painted for Will Coleman and Boyd Martin to celebrate Practical Horseman’s 50th Anniversary

An Unforeseen Opportunity

As I hit the road to Kentucky, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey I was embarking upon. Driving with a painted saddle that had been lost and found in the mail, I was on my way to one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the country. This remarkable adventure was all thanks to the collaboration between Practical Horseman, Redwood Tack, and a group of talented artists celebrating Practical Horseman's 50th anniversary. These painted saddles, signed by top riders, would be auctioned to support various charities including a children's hospital and A Home for Every Horse.

A Twist of Fate

It all started with a chance meeting during my time as the artist in residence at the 2023 Carolina International CCI & HT competition. Little did I know that my conversation with a local artist would set in motion a series of serendipitous events that would forever change the course of my artistic journey.

After a series of unexpected but ultimately fortunate events, I received an opportunity to paint a second saddle for Practical Horseman’s charitable celebration. This saddle just happened to belong to one of the best riders in the world.

Special Delivery

The legendary equipment was hand delivered by Practical Horseman’s incredible team late that evening, and after several hugs and thank-you’s from both sides I was ready to start creating. When I finally laid eyes on Boyd Martin's Stubben saddle, my apprehension was palpable. The well-worn tack bore the marks of countless cross-country miles, and I knew I had to do justice to its history. Collaborating with Practical Horseman and Boyd Martin's team, I had crafted a design that paid homage to the saddle's past and Boyd's remarkable journey. American and Australian flags adorned the saddle, symbolizing the rider's dual heritage and complimenting the bright blue piping. Knowing the design needed to be spot on, I set about drawing each elements of the composition. I used a white jelly roll pen, the same kind kids write on their hands and notebooks with, to map out where each part of the painting would go.

Practical Horseman delivered Boyd’s saddle to Larissa so she could start painting at her hotel

Painting in the Bluegrass State

Day blended into night as I set about bringing the design to life. Working into the early morning and barely catching a wink of sleep, I was consumed by the project's magnitude and significance. With an ambitious design and only three days to paint, I knew I’d have to make quick progress or I’d never have enough time to finish the entire saddle.

With the base layers and flags painted, I headed to the Kentucky Horse Park armed with my pigments, brushes, and determination. The enormity of painting Boyd's Stubben saddle hit me as I walked through the park, passing iconic landmarks that I had only ever seen in photos. The Rolex areana, the famous clocks, the bronze statues and bluegrass hills - the Kentucky Horse Park is breathtaking. My destination was the Stubben booth, where I would commence painting Boyd Martin's saddle while Practical Horseman, Stubben, and thousands of spectators watched.

Stubben: A Saddle Legacy

The name Stubben holds a special place in my heart, as my mother has treasured her Stubben saddle since buying it to use during riding lessons in the 1980s. The German saddle company's dedication to craftsmanship and durability resonates deeply with me, and it was truly a privilege to paint on one of their creations. The Stubben team greeted me with open arms, making me feel like a member of their team from the moment we met. They had even customized a special stand for the saddle, ensuring it held the tack at the perfect angle for me to paint. With my colors and brushes laid out beside me, I began the transformation of Boyd's olympic saddle.

Art Connections Us All

As I painted, a steady stream of visitors and spectators surrounded me. Engaging with fellow artists and enthusiasts during the event was both inspiring and uplifting. The eventing community's camaraderie was truly remarkable, and every interaction I had was filled with positivity. Even the legendary dressage rider Silva Martin took a moment to chat about the project, a surreal experience that left me wondering if I was dreaming.

Grand Prix dressage rider Silva Martin stops by to see Larissa’s progress on Boyd Martin’s painted saddle

Pursuing a Dream

I’ve always found horses and equestrian sport endlessly inspiring, but my artwork didn’t always look the way it does now. My journey into equestrian art had humble beginnings, with my initial trepidation about sharing my work preventing me from showing it to anyone outside my immediate family. Over the years I've honed my skills through practice, online courses, and unwavering support from my community. This remarkable project and the opportunity to paint live at the Kentucky Three-Day Event were a testament to how far I've come, and to the generosity of the equestrian community.

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.

See you again soon!

Thanks so much to the Kentucky Horse Park, Practical Horseman, Stubben, and all of the lovely people who stopped by to watch and encourage me as I painted. My experience at the Kentucky Three Day Event was amazing and I’m so grateful for every minute I spent with you!

Bringing Art to Life at Your Event

If you're interested in having live painting at your facility or event, please don't hesitate to contact me via email at hello@larissaann.com. I'd love to collaborate with you and create a beautiful, memorable experience!