The piece below, Victory Lap, is based on Tommy Garland's victory lap after winning the Purebred Western Futurity Championship class at the Arabian Nationals. 

I really loved how well balanced Tommy's horses are and his ability to communicate with them, especially with only a bosal. Hate to say it, but I've seen quite a few dressage horses in double bridles who are more stiff, resistant, and on-the-forehand in.


In the victory lap, Tommy had his Arabian move on out and cover some ground. One photo by Mike Ferrara did a great job of capturing how uphill the pair were. Almost a rear in the canter - amazing lightness, engagement from behind, energy, and a sense of playfulness.

This piece titled, "Electric Canter," was a fun and exciting piece to create. I'm quite happy with the energy that came through in this contemporary equine painting.

Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 20"x20"

The original, signed prints, and framed tile are available.

This past weekend (November 4-6) the Dressage Impressions Team (Emily, Nate, Mumsiepoo, and Daddy) travelled to Virginia to exhibit at the Equine Extravaganza. It was a wonderful show, friendly atmosphere, and had many knowledgable clinicians. I especially enjoyed listening to Colleen Kelly's lectures (very informative and different from the typical dressage explanations) and watching Guy McClean ride (most supple horse I've seen ridden without a bridle). 

There were many positive comments, "Love the energy", "Beautiful colors", "My favorite booth... I can't help but he happy here", and a lot of "Wows!" as people would come around a wall and see the "Trio", a large piece which consists of eight 20"x20" canvases (shown above). 

I also received some fun advice, "You should paint a bunch of pink and purple horses (similar to Spooked in Violet- shown below) and add horns to them. Little girls love unicorns."

A hunter in camouflage asked if I ever considered painting deer and suggested that I do dark greens and browns for the background.

I do plan on branching out and doing a few western horses and other breeds/disciplines. Please comment below and let me know what you think about unicorns, deer, or any new painting subjects.



P.S. I got a wild hair and decided to ride the mechanical bull. The guy operating it said I was the best he'd ever seen (other than his helper who rides it on a regular basis). He was surprised a girl could out-ride the boys. I'll give credit to dressage for that one - and the emphasis it places on a deep seat. So fellow dressage riders with deep seats if you're looking to have some fun, go out ride a mechanical bull and show the cowboys how it's done!! :)

Thank you Daddy, Mumsiepoo, and da "N" - I couldn't have done it without your help and support!!!