There is something easy about riding a horse. If you have never had the pleasure of riding, then I encourage you to give it a try. If you are nervous or tense, the horse automatically senses your emotions. Being around animals always soothes me. I associate many terrific books from my childhood with animals, Black Beauty, Charlotte's Web, and the list goes on and on. I grew up in Kentucky, near a riding stable and still love going to see the horses there and listening to the organ music of the horse shows. I always found the riders to have a certain elegance, and the exquisite ribbons to be just glorious in color.
When this request came in to illustrate this beautiful horse, "Dewey" - I could hardly wait to capture his gentle demeanor. Here he is feeling so proud, hanging out by the barn, waiting for some carrots after an easy ride. Do you ride? If so, what are some steps you take to ensure an easy ride?
There is something easy about riding a horse. If you have never had the pleasure of riding, then I encourage you to give it a try. If you are nervous or tense, the horse automatically senses your emotions. Being around animals always soothes me. I associate many terrific books from my childhood with animals, Black Beauty, Charlotte's Web, and the list goes on and on. I grew up in Kentucky, near a riding stable and still love going to see the horses there and listening to the organ music of the horse shows. I always found the riders to have a certain elegance, and the exquisite ribbons to be just glorious in color.
When this request came in to illustrate this beautiful horse, "Dewey" - I could hardly wait to capture his gentle demeanor. Here he is feeling so proud, hanging out by the barn, waiting for some carrots after an easy ride. Do you ride? If so, what are some steps you take to ensure an easy ride?
30 comments:
Beautiful illustration! I learn to ride when I was younger to help my posture! Now that I'm a Mom it scares the crap out of my. But really any thing dangerous does.
A beautiful illustration! There is a stable a couple of miles away. Sometimes I ride "Barney" - who is a sweetie. I talk to him to make things easier for both of us. I want to feel comfortable, however, I also want him to feel comfortable!
There have always been horses nearby. I haven't ridden in several years- but always love it when I get back on. You have done his fellow proud.
I've always thought horses carry such a graceful quality. The only riding I've ever really done is in the mountains of Colorado ~ it was beautiful.
Jo
Horses are some of the most beautiful animals in the world, you have captured this lovely creature perfectly!
I have ridden since I was 7. There is something very special that happens when you are in the presence of a horse. They are magical. Their smell, touch and feel is like nothing else. Beautiful portrait.
This illustration brought tears to my eyes!! You captured his personality and poise. I bet his owners are jumping for joy!
I love horses their gentle souls, their sweet eyes and bodies so strong yet eloquently. If I could have one in my house I would.
When I was a young girl I use to ride nothing fancy just got up on the saddle and ride. Friends of the family had horses and ponies. Actually this was my first job working with the ponies. Ahhh... the memories. Thanks. xoxo
I love horses.....they just know I am a wuss and treat me as such. I've fallen off more than I care to admit, maybe I'll try again one day. Beautiful illustration Patricia!
Trish - This is a very charming drawing drawing of a fine four legged critter!
I used to ride. My dearest high school friend and college roommate had a horse and so did her uncle. We would ride those horses all afternoon in the summers and winters between college semesters. Those are some of my greatest memories. Your illustration immediately took me back to the sounds (and smells) of the barn.
wonderful!
AND thankyou So much for the Happy Mail!
I love your illustrations!
Have a lovely day.
Char
I've only ridden a few times in my life, but I've always loved it. I've been promising myself that as soon as both our sons are out of daycare, I'm going to splurge and take some riding lessons.
Oh Beautiful. You want to reach out and touch Dewey. Well done!
Only a few times for me too but always love it so much! I remember one time as a teenager fibbing about how much experience I had riding so I could go out on a group ride above my level. Perhaps not smart but so fun. This is a beautiful illustration!
Gorgeous illustration!
We were just in the park and a police horse came up with the officer, he was stunning! 17 hands high, 27 years old (you would never know it!) Clydesdale/Thoroughbred and his name is Gentle Ben. He stood there for 30 minutes just enjoying the attention from Gaia and me. I want to ride so badly! I love horses!
I love the way you captured his eyes, the switch of the tail and the implied motion while he is standing still. I wish my hair was the color of his coat. Beautiful.
p.s. my verification was "anticar" which Dewey is! I always look for meaning in these things. A way to amuse.
So beautiful and detailed, Patricia!
I was lucky enough to start riding early - I actually learned to ride bareback and then progressed to Western. I haven't been on a horse in years, but now I'm craving a ride.
I have "ridden" but cannot say I "ride". I love the beauty and grace of these animals and you captured this one with such grace.
Blessings...
I am imagining each of us riding - our own horse, on a lovely path! Thanks to each of you for your kind comments.
pve
beautiful illustration patricia. aaah, charlotte's web, a favorite since the 4th grade when my all-time favorite teacher introduced us to it. i blame her for my love of reading! thanks for the postcard. pam
Beautiful illustration! Haven't ridden in years, but wish at times I were a rider. One day!
I miss riding so much! I grew up riding and keep saying that I'm going to start again and join the local hunt, but I never quite go through with it.
Dewy is beautiful! He looks like such a sweet boy.
I love Dewey! You did capture his sweetness for sure.
Oh how divine! I've always adored horses and this one is so elegant, so poised...
Dewey is divine. What a beautiful job you did. I have not rode since my teens. Would very much to give it a try once again.
horses are such majestic creatures and i do admire them so ... and you have truly captured this beauty ... dewey ...
prairiegirl
Oh, handsome Dewey. A good friend of mine rides dressage and her horse is named Walter, which I think, like Dewey, is charming.
I used to ride as a little girl, and have recently been considering returning to the saddle.
I lovvveee horses...their beauty; their strength, their elegance. What a creature!
p.s. Thanks SO much for the happy mail! A weekend midnight craft bender enabled me to reciprocate suitably. :-)
Laura,
Your car arrived today! Thanks for thinking of me.
Hope your summer at the shore is super!
pve
This is one of my fav illustrations thus far! Beautiful...XXOO
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