Hurdles

Sometimes when I set out to plan a painting,

I keep myself open to exploring different possibilities.

On this day I sat in my studio with two tin horses,

and went from there.

 

These two horse and riders are

Cracker Jack premiums from the 1930's to 1940's.

I had an idea of them appearing to be going on a ride together.

 

Then I remembered I had a third horse and rider.

The larger horse is from a

1950's Chein tin merry-g-round wind up toy.

Suddenly the quiet two character image involved a third character,

but I needed something else.

What were they going to be doing, how was I feeling,

what did I want to show.

 

Jumping a wooden spool! That was it.

I ride and love the feeling of going through a field

and jumping a log if it is in your way. There is a freedom you feel.

Also I felt the symbolism of us all having hurdles to cross.

 

Setting up my compositions can sometimes be tricky.

Here I am using a microphone stand to tie a string from it

to the larger horse to help keep it propped up.

 

The final painting:

Hurdles

16" x 20"

oil on panel 

 

Hurdles will be showing at

Elliott Fouts Gallery

October Still Life Show

October 6, 2012 to November 1, 2012

Sacramento, CA

(916)736-1429