We recently have had many storms pass through, which has left our farm soggy and
battered. After the latest, I was out walking the pasture, looking for downed branches
and shingles. While doing this, my horse followed me about, taking nibbles of grass
every few feet. I was rushing around trying to get done as quickly as possible. There
were more chores to be done, than hours left in the day.
Chicory patiently followed me, as always the courteous gentleman. Whenever I would
stop for even just a moment, he would softly nuzzle my back or arm. After a few of these
gentle persuasions I finally got the hint and took a break. I just stood there in the
misting rain, leaning against his warm body and watching the flood waters flow through
the low spot of the pasture. I let myself get absorbed in the pleasantness of it all. It
is a wonderful feeling to let the quiet and stillness get inside.
It was with this feeling of peace that I worked on "Days End". I wanted the
horses to convey their harmony and contentment with each other and their surroundings.
When working on my art I draw upon my relationships with my animals. It is often said
that you should paint what you know. Which I do. But more so than that, I paint what
I feel.
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