Specializing in detailed pencil illustrations and watercolor paintings of people, pets and places. To “Consider An Original” contact willstom01@gmail.com for current pricing.

Saturday, September 10, 2011

"Can you draw a horse?"


MARENGO, September 2011
"Can you draw a horse, do ya think?"
Never really thought about it.  But a friend wanted a big drawing of her Arabian, Marengo.
Drew the lady, Emily Love, too.
This one is among my favorites, because it is completely different from any others I have done. It was also among the most difficult, and went through several changes along the trail.

And now, a few words from Emily ...

 

 
Below is the original photograph, which is in a small frame. A lot of guesswork went into the riding clothes because I really couldn't tell where the horse stopped and the rider began.

I liked the fence but felt the trees would distract from the central image.


I was so worried that Marengo would turn out like a German Shepherd. But the fence and landscaping proved the biggest hurdle. Below is the drawing before I replaced and "fixed" the fence rails.

At first I was just going to have Marengo standing on the ground, but the drawing looked a little empty.


Here are a few more looks at how it all came together:


I really know very little about horses. But an afternoon was spent with Emily at the place named for Marengo, and with the happy horses, dogs and cats who still live there. I certainly appreciate their beauty, and she loves them all. I think she will be happy with Marengo again, too.

I am way overdue for another visit.

Tutto il meglio per gli anni a venire dal tuo amico Tom.
Eh, close enough.


I will draw your horse, your pets, your kids -- even yo' momma. Contact me at willstom01@gmail.com or hankbonesman@embarqmail.com