Monday, May 7, 2007

Starting Over With a New Blog

Like newborn foals on the ground, springtime has always been a time of new life and renewed hope. Going with that theme, I've decided to create a "real" blog here and commit myself, through postings, to regular studio hours and to getting my life under better control. Out with the old and in with the new, so to speak.

For you see, my life had become unmanageable, my art career at a standstill and my horse unridden for weeks at a time. I won't bore you with a long list of reasons why, except to say that it all began about ten years ago with the beginning decline of my elderly parents' health and all that went with it: more time commitment, worry and stress. Foolishly, I chose this very time to move from a career as a horse portrait artist into one of a fine artist with all the marketing that went with it. Slowly the obligations, unfinished projects and general clutter piled up until the whole was overwhelming and paralyzing.

So, at the beginning of 2007 I began some heavy duty soul searching, the result of which was a decision to put the career on hold for a year or so. During that time the plan is to build up a new body of work to present to the world while at the same time eliminating all the clutter from my life.

So, here I am with a brand new blog and a commitment to "mend my ways". It's my intention to share with all of you, dear readers, the wonderful new creations from the studio and maybe even a few flops just to keep me humble.

Actually, this isn't my first blog. I've had one on my website for a couple of years now, but hardly anyone has found it. If you care to look and read, find it here. While you're there, have a look at my paintings and drawings to get a feel for what I do and who I am.

The painting at the top of this entry is one I created this past winter for an online member show sponsored by The Equine Art Guild. The theme of the show is "The Artist's Horse As Muse", and the painting depicts my horse, Scottie, and I as a young girl in a fantasy setting. The title is "In My Dreams". Be sure to visit this very special show and to read the artist's stories behind their paintings.

So, that's it for this first posting. Not very exciting, but I promise more artwork and insights into the life of a horse artist in the weeks and months ahead. Please feel free to post a comment and let me know what you think. 'Bye for now.