"Belgian Paint" or Is It "Paint a Belgian"

 I grew up an avid equestrian involved in 4-H and then proceeded to take my horse to college to major in Equestrian Studies as well as Art.  After graduating from the University of Findlay I was able to work in the quarter horse industry training pleasure horses for three years.  After some life changing decisions I found the need to get a job that offered benefits and a regular salary and ended up working as a school photographer, which in turn led me to yearbook sales.  My saddle found permanent residence in my spare bedroom where I could occasionally catch the scent of the leather while dusting it.  I miss the smell of the barn and the companionship of my horse, who I had to sell to help pay for college.

Now horseless, I still hold the passion for riding close to my heart.  Last week my son's Cub Scout troop was given the opportunity to visit a barn to learn about horses.  Needless to say, I was ecstatic and quickly dusted off my boots.  Knowing I was an experienced rider, the Cub Scout pack leader allowed me choice of mounts.  I didn't care, as long as I could get back in the saddle again (no pun intended).  I ended up riding this Belgian/Paint who was truly a joy.  I was in my element.  My 8 year old son was kind enough to take pictures of me while I rode.  It was truly heaven.  

After my visit to the barn, I've been inspired to get back into painting horses again.  I primarily worked with oils in college, but watercolors have been my painting passion lately, so equines in watercolors it is.

I plan to continue painting horses this week....my own challenge to myself.  It's all coming back to me...the anatomy of the horse, the gentle slopes of the withers and back, the depressions above the eyes.

Someday I plan to have a horse again.  For now, I will paint them.