Relief - ciment fondu, 36" by 48"
Pure admiration and love of horses was the motivation for this relief. Not much narrative, not much composition. Obviously I got a fair bit of inspiration from Degas, Delacroix, Gericault, Stubbs and mythology – pre-car culture.
But I seldom ride except nervously and only as a tourist on special occasions.
My mom, Faye on her palomino, 'Pal' - in front of a small barn on our property in Watrous Sask.
During the time we spent on the prairies, my mother learned to ride in order to overcome her fear of horses. Once she was in control of that fear her interest shifted to other things and she stopped riding.
Thank you for sharing the story about your mother and horses. It provides excellent context for your strong work.
ReplyDeleteI dream of horses...Horses had a strong presence in the lives of my family ages ago.
May this next year for you be filled with many good works, health, happiness and peace.
Hi Melinda,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind thoughts and wishes. It’s always pure delight to hear from you!
I have incredibly fond memories of my mom. The horse relief done several years ago, is just a pretext for posting these snapshots of her. There was a cattle or horse rancher in town who my parents were friends with - with the last name of Leslie. He encouraged my mother to ride.
Of course the painters of the 19th century were as familiar with the subject of horses as they were with their own bodies – hence their depictions of horses had so much authority. And I who am so seldom around horses and never ride…..well…
Still I suppose there is some inexplicable Freudian or Platonic connection that we feel. So I'll most likely have another go at this subject matter. In fact I know I will.
Have a joyous 2010!
Marcia