the second in a series of virtual Art Shows by the members of the Equine Art Guild
For equine artists, horses are endlessly inspiring and none more so than our very own. We often put them in our paintings but it seems that we rarely get around to painting their “official” portraits. This show was meant to change that and to honor the horses which have meant so much to us and have given us so much creative inspiration; our horses, our Muses.
When creating commissioned portraits for others, we artists are constrained by the wishes and instructions of our clients, and the resulting portraits usually follow established formulas for equine portrait compositions. A head and neck view in three quarter profile or a standing conformation pose are the usual requests, with or without backgrounds. Although lovely in their own right, the possibilities for expression and creativity are so much greater.
For this project, member artists were encouraged to create works of art in any manner they chose which expressed their love for their equine companions. Members were also encouraged to go beyond the usual and express their creativity in a unique way in any medium of their choice if they so desired. This has resulted in a show of rich variation and depth.
To accompany the artwork, members submitted short stories about their horses and how they are inspired by them. A deep love of horses and the special bonds that can develop between horses and humans are the universal themes expressed. Many of these stories are heartwarming, some are tragic and each one is unique.
Be sure to read the stories as well as enjoying the artwork.
And the next time you think about having a portrait done of your horse, keep your mind open to the endless possibilities that an artist can offer you.
Of these they dream by Inge Dagmar Manders 50 x 60 inches Oil paint on patinated composite gold leaf/ Sterling silver leaf/ 23k gold leaf and copper leaf Artist's Inspiration story NFS Prints available - Inquire
