Art at the Classic

I received confirmation today that both of my photographic entries have been accepted to Art at the Classic, held in conjunction with the 26th Annual Draft Horse Classic in Grass Valley, California, September 20 - 23, 2012.

Now to get them framed!

"Days Gone Bye"

"Jeremy and Phil"

Mi Choyce

He is my very best friend. My inspiration. Muse. Mentor. My heart.

Mi Choyce. Handsome. Bud. Many of you will recognize him as he is most often referred to, The Love of My Life.

Today, we celebrate 30 years together.

There are far too many pictures and memories for one post to do justice, so I've created a page to share some of my favorites.

Featured Art

"Thanks, Bud"

On Tuesday, July 10, 2012, I will be celebrating 30 years with my very best friend, Mi Choyce. I wrote this blog post several years ago, and while trying to decide on this months featured art I felt this image summed up simply what all of us horse crazy kids know to be true, so I'm sharing it with you again:

Of little girls and horses...

This piece is quite possibly the one of greatest sentimental value to me. A tender moment is exchanged between my then two year old daughter Michaela and my beloved horse, Mi Choyce.

In appreciation of her ride, Michaela marched directly into the hay room, came back with an armload of hay - which she stuffed in his feed bucket - and patted him gently on the head.

That inexplicable connection between little girls and horses, captured in this heartwarming moment. An enduring reminder of one of the simplest joys: friendship.

Open edition. Unstretched canvas print, lustre finish. Image size: 24" x 16", $225.00. To purchase, click here.

Brush stroke finish, Gallery and Museum wrap also available. Additional sizes, papers and frame options on request.

Image also available as a large magnet and single or boxed notecards.

Tar

"Sunrise Silhouette"

Tar (on left) and Frisbee (right) are Tenessee Walkers that belong to my neighbor across the road. Over the years, they have served as models for my work (many of you will recognize Frisbee from "Morning Mist") and when Kathy is out of town, I've looked after them for her.

In mid December, Kathy was in a car accident that left her with a shattered ankle and fractured sternum. I have been caring for her animals while she recouperates. Early Sunday morning, she and her daughter left for a week long trip to Jamaica that had been planned months before for the winter school break.

On Monday, Frisbee and Tar greeted me as usual for their morning feeding. Tar was filthy from lying down in the run-in, and was going to need a good grooming before going back out. As I closed the outside gate, instead of going to his stall as he usually does, Tar went into Frisbee's stall and refused to come out when I asked. I shut the barn door and went to the stall, noticing immediately that he was shivering. As I backed him out of the stall into the isleway, it was apparent that he was in distress. Sometime during the night, Tar had coliced. I had checked on them around eleven, but it was now nearly ten o'clock the next morning. How long had he been like this?

As I tried to quickly assess his condition, my first reaction was to start getting him warmed up. Finding no blankets in the barn, I ran home and grabbed what extras I had, bringing towels from the house to dry him with, explaining to Michaela - home for winter break as well - that I needed to take care of Tar and she was on her own for the time being.

Back at the barn I found him still standing in his stall, but I needed more room to work on him so I pulled him out into the isle. It was as if all the resolve he had had crumbled once I understood his need. He could barely stand as I threw the blankets on him, and he leaned heavily on me for support. Dialing the number for the vet, I fought back the panic that was rising in me. His condition was becoming increasingly critical, and I was alone. I knew his life was in my hands. I would need all of my knowledge to help him, and then some.

I breathlessly told the receptionist everything, repeating it again to the vet when she transferred me. Tar's condition was dire, and he disregarded it as such. His recommended course of action would have done nothing to help Tar. His flippant attitude left me disheartened. I was angry for having wasted precious time for Tar. I dialed my own vet, not caring if I was overstepping my bounds - knowing full well my decisions might be challenged later. I was willing to defend my actions if necessary and would deal with that when and if the time came. My only concern was doing whatever could be done for Tar.

With his heart rate elevated at 78 bpm, we started him on a 500lb dose of Banamine, and as I waited for Dr. Ayers to arrive, I continued to towel dry him. Calling in route to check his response to the Banamine, she gave the go ahead to give him another 500lb dosage. I tried to call Kathy as I worked on Tar, but kept getting her voicemail. I dreaded having to tell her what was unfolding here at home. I then called her son and son-in-law to fill them in and have them continue to try and reach Kathy as we further assessed and treated Tar.

My heart sank as we tried to lavage him with warm water, unable to obtain a clear reflux. Large amounts of sour smelling coarse hay particles and a few flakes of corn were all that came back through the tube. After approximately forty minutes, the tube clogged completely and finally had to be removed. Dr. Ayers suspected that we were dealing with more than just an impaction, and I agreed. I called Kathy's son again to tell him our next course of action would be an iv treatment. Things were not looking good, and we had no guarantee that further treatment would be successful, especially if our suspicions were correct. At this point, we had to consider the financial burden we would be placing on Kathy as well.

We went ahead with the iv fluids, administering 5 L bolus of fluids before letting him into his stall, where he urinated normally before lying down. His heart rate had dropped to 56 bpm, and he remained lying quietly in sternal recumbency as we administered another 5 L bolus of fluids. It was near 4:30 as we drew up our overnight plan.

The next few hours saw me checking frequently on Tar to change his sweaty blankets as I tried desperately to keep him warm. We left him to lie quietly in his stall as his breathing was becoming more labored, and even a brief walk was stressing him. He got up momentarily, and I cleaned his stall as he lay in the isle waiting for me, giving him extra shavings to keep him warm and comfortable. The other animals still needed feeding, towels and blankets needed to be washed, and phone calls made. I gave Michaela something to eat and let the dogs out. Michael came to help me administer another round of iv fluids at approximately 9:30. Tar showed signs of himself as we started the second bag - getting up and pawing impatiently, that familiar glint in his eye. I allowed myself a moment of hope that things might turn.

He immediately returned to lying down once the treatment was finished, the spark extinguished, my hope with it. I left him at 12:30 to get some rest, setting my alarm for 4am, only then aware of how cold I'd been when I crawled under my heated blanket. I fell into an uneasy sleep a little after two. My body was less than happy at my request to get back up at four, thanking me with gut wrenching heaves of bitter bile. Tar was quiet on my check, and I returned home for a few more hours of sleep, knowing it would be another long day ahead of us.

At 8am he was still lying quietly, but his respiration was worse and he grunted uncomfortably with each breath. I flushed his catheter again and called the vet. Dr. Dwyer was scheduled to come at 10am, but had another emergency and couldn't make it until noon. Dr. Sutton was available and I requested she come out as soon as possible. I tended quickly to the other animals as I waited for her to arrive.

Her exam confirmed my fears: despite our efforts Tar's condition was deteriorating. His heart rate was 90 bpm. He had discharge from refluxing and the rectal exam revealed intestinal distention. The treatment had not helped. It was agreed to forego surgery and the heartbreaking decision was made to put Tar down.

We took him out into the pasture and I held his head, speaking softly to him and kissing him gently as Dr. Sutton prepared the injection. When it was done, our attention turned to Frisbee, who was frantically calling for his friend from the barn. We gave him a light sedative and then turned him out to say goodbye. As he pawed and nipped at Tar to get to his feet, his sad whinnies piercing my heart - the realization that his friend was gone finally began to sink in as he stood protectively over Tar's still form. I stood wondering with a heavy heart how anyone could possibly believe animals don't understand loss. Frisbee's grief was palpable.

We buried Tar this afternoon in the paddock behind the barn.

My gratitude and thanks to Dr. Ayers, Dr. Sutton, Dr. Boatwright and the rest of the staff at GVEC for everything they did for Tar, and for me. My thanks to Butch for coming to help us put Tar to rest. My gratitude also to Will and James for helping me through this. My heartfelt sorrow to Kathy on the loss of her boy.

Featured Art

"Percheron Foal"

Spring may be months away yet here in Western New York, but it has not stopped me from dreaming of frolicking foals and green grass. This winter in particular has found me counting the days until warmer weather arrives; it has been unseasonably cold this year, and seemingly greyer than usual.

So, as I sit nestled in my studio until the grass reappears and that new crop of foals arrive, I thought I would share one of my favorite foal pics with you ~ a darling percheron colt dozing in the lush Spring grass and this month's featured art:

Open edition, unstretched canvas print, lustre finish. Image size: 24" x 16", $225.00. To purchase, click here.

Brush stroke finish, Gallery and Museum wrap also available.

Additional sizes, papers and frame options on request.

Chief

It is with great sadness that we said goodbye to Chief yesterday. I am grateful for the time he was with us, and that he went quietly in the end; though I'm not sure knowing that it would be soon was of any solace when the time came, just relief.

The day is grey and quiet, reflecting the mood on the farm, as if it knows we mourn. Manny and Choyce, Jordan and Caleb are all accutely aware of the absence and loss of their friend. There is a void in my heart this morning as big as his empty stall. How long before I will stop anticipating his greeting each morning I arrive at the barn?

Michaela and I will be planting a butterfly garden on his grave as a memorial; whenever he got out he would inevitably meander through the one by the pond - much to my dismay - completely obliterating it, as though Belgians hold some grudge against butterflies.

I am also setting up a fund that will benefit aged draft horses through sales of "Sentinel", a portrait of Chief, and September's featured art. At this time, I am not sure which organization(s) that will be. If you know of a worthy recipient, please let me know.

"Sentinel"

Open edition Fuji Crystal Archive print, 10" x 15", $50.00. To purchase, click here. Additional sizes, papers and frame options available.

Open edition unstretched canvas print, lustre finish, 12" x 18", $175.00. To purchase, click here. Brush stroke finish, Gallery and Museum Wrap also available.

12" x 18" Gallery Mount, $185.00. To purchase, click here.

12" x 18" Poster, $5.00. To purchase, click here.

Small Magnet, 2 3/8" x 3 1/4", $3.50. To purchase, click here.

Notecards w/envelopes: single card, linen paper, $3.50. box of ten cards, linen paper, $25.00.

Safe journey, big dawg. You will be missed.

Featured Art

"Sentinel"

Very often when I am outside working I will glance up to find Chief, our Belgian gelding, silently observing me. There is a wisdom in the depth of his gaze; a look of gentleness and knowing, perhaps earned through a life of service and labor in younger years. His days are now spent leisurely meandering about, as here, I assume the role of resident workhorse. Affectionately known as my "big dawg", it took time for us to become friends, this toady old belgian and me. But like many a crotchety old man, he has a softer side - and he has found that underneath it all I do, too. Our daily interactions have inevitably taught us much about one another, and slowly understanding has turned to acceptance, caring and most of all, the friendship we now share.

At nearly twenty-nine, Chief's aged body struggles at times, and there have been some rough days these past few weeks. Days when his old legs do not have strength to support his massive frame and we sit quietly together, taking comfort in the presence of one another. Days of watching and waiting for him to tell me he is ready to journey elsewhere, secretly hoping that he will instead just drift quietly away in his slumber, as I thought he had the first morning I came to know that he'd be leaving us before long. Peaceful. And without suffering.

I am thankful for each day he remains with us, knowing that he will tell me when it is time to say goodbye. Yet I am dreading that final call to the vet, or of finding him ... Every morning I am greeted by his gentle nicker is the sound of another precious day. I will take them as they come, and rejoice in their number ~ as I am not quite ready yet, either, dear friend.

Sales from this work currently go toward Chief's care. In the future, a portion of the continued sale of this work will be donated in his honor to support other aged draft horses. If you know of a worthy organization, please contact me.

Open edition unstretched canvas print, lustre finish. Image size: 12" x 18", $175.00. To purchase, click here.

Brush Stroke finish, Gallery and Museum Wrap also available.

Fuji Crystal Archive print, size 10" x 15", $50.00. To purchase, click here.

Gallery Mount, size 12" x 18", $185.00. To purchase, click here.

Additional sizes and papers on request.

Image also available as a 12 x 18 poster, small magnet, and single or boxed notecard.

Photography Exhibit

"Walk These Woods"

Solace Place, A Ten Year Retrospective

An exhibit featuring fifty photographic works

July 1 - September 10, 2010

Bank of Castile Main Gallery at GoArt!
Seymour Place
201 East Main Street
Batavia, New York 14020

Gallery hours are
Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm
and by appointment

Opening Reception
Saturday, July 17, 2010 1-3pm
All are welcome to attend

Indee's Initiation

Indee escapes a grab from Manny during his first turnout with the boys this morning.

Grandpa's Team

"Grandpa's Team"

"Grandpa's Team" won first place in the photography division at the Art at the Classic exhibit at the Draft Horse Classic in Grass Valley, California. This award was a special honor for me, as the judge was one of my favorite artists whose work I greatly admire, Lesley Harrison.

Open edition photographic print on Fuji Crystal Archive paper. Image size, 15 x 10", $50.00. To purchase, click here.

Framed print, finished size 21 x 16", $275.00. To purchase, click here.

Additional sizes, papers and canvas prints available.

September Miracle

"September Miracle"

Born at the end of September, Diamond D Miracle was the first foal born at Diamond D Acres from their newly acquired herd of broodmares. Just a few hours old, Miracle, though already showing her extremely inquisitive nature, stays close to mom as a light rain begins to fall.

Open edition equine photographic print on Fuji Crystal Archive paper, matted and framed. Finished size:12 1/2 x 10 7/8" (7 x 5" image), $165.00. To purchase click here.

Print only, size 9 x 6", $35.00. To purchase, click here.

Image also available in black and white and sepia.

Additional sizes, papers and canvas prints available.

Summer Pastures

"Summer Pastures"

Ginger, a little paint mare, grazes contentedly in the brilliant late afternoon sun.

Open edition equine photographic print on Fuji Crystal Archive paper. Finished size: 15 x 12" (image 10 x 7"), $200.00. To purchase, click here.

Print only, size 9 x 6", $35.00. To purchase, click here.

Morning Mist

"Morning Mist"

As the sun rises through the mist beyond the hedgerow, my neighbor's gelding stands silhouetted against the coming dawn.

Open edition equine photographic print on Fuji Crystal Achive paper, matted and framed. Finished size: 21 7/8 x 19" (image 14 x 11"), $295.00. To purchase, click here.

Print only, size 15 x 10", $50.00. To purchase, click here.

Additional sizes, papers and canvas prints available.

Walnut Hill

"Pairs"

Reference photos from Saturday and Sundays performances at the 2008 Walnut Hill Carriage Driving Competition can be viewed by clicking here.

Images are for viewing and the personal use of the competitors only. Editorial and Avertising inquiries are invited. Please email me at solacepointe@equinesite.com

It was wonderful to see everyone. I also enjoyed making new aquaintences and the opportunity of meeting in person several people I've been in contact with throughout the year via email. Congratulations to all of the competitors. We'll see you next year!

For more information on the show, visit www.walnuthillfarm.com

Diamond D Cooper J Lane

"Coop"

Young Coop takes a break from the sweltering summer sun in a patch of shade beneath a stand of poplars.

Diamond D Cooper J Lane - "Coop" - now a yearling, is proudly owned by Diamond D Acres Waterport, New York.

Open edition equine photographic print on Fuji Crystal Archive paper, double matted. Image size: 10 x 7", $35.00. To purchase, click here.

Additional sizes, papers, frame options and canvas prints available.

Thanks, Bud

"Thanks, Bud"

Of little girls and horses...

This piece is quite possibly the one of greatest sentimental value to me. A tender moment is exchanged between my then two year old daughter Michaela, and my beloved horse, Mi Choyce. In appreciation of her ride, Michaela marched directly into the hay room, came back with an armload of hay which she stuffed into his feed bucket, and patted him gently on the head.

That inexplicable connection between little girls and horses, captured in this heartwarming image. An enduring reminder of one of the simplest of joys, friendship.

Open edition. Printed on Fuji Crystal Archive paper, matted and framed. Finished size: 17 1/2 x 15 7/8". $215.00. To purchase, click here.

Print only, size 10 x 8", $42.00. To purchase, click here.

Art at the Classic

Below are the photographic entries accepted to the 2008 Art at the Classic exhibit at the Draft Horse Classic, September 18th - 21st in Grass Valley, California. "Braiding Ben", a pen and ink drawing, has also been accepted. Image of "Braiding Ben" currently unavailable.

"Grandpa's Team"

"Kentucky Morn"

Untitled, Belgian Portrait

Grandpa's Team

"Grandpa's Team"

"Grandpa's Team" won third place in the black and white photography division at the Equine Dream Art Exhibit at the Western States Horse Expo, June 6-8th in Sacramento, California.

Open edition, printed on Fuji Crystal Archive paper. Image 15 x 10". $50.00. To purchase, click here.

Framed print, finished size 21 x 16", $275.00. To purchase, click here.

Featured Art

"Untitled"

A trio of Belgian draft horses plow under the remains of last years harvest, preparing the field for Spring planting.

Perhaps it is because one of the first equines I was introduced to as a child was an aged Clydesdale my friends family kept as a companion to their riding horse, that I have felt this affinity toward the gentle giants - the draft horses. Two of my own are drafts - Chief, an aged Belgian gelding and Manny, a Percheron/TB. Our featured art for the month is a new release featuring three beautiful Belgians demonstrating at the annual old fashioned days put on by our local draft horse club.

Open Edition. Unstretched canvas print, Premier Gloss finish. Image 16 x 10.6". Museum and Gallery wrap also available. $125.00. To purchase, click here.

Blue Moon

"Blue Moon"

This darling Appaloosa filly proudly shows off the clump of grass she managed to pull learning the fine art of grazing.

Open edition Epson Giclee, double matted. Image: 16 x 10". $75.00. To purchase, click here.

Additional sizes, papers, frame options and canvas prints available.