'Alive' sold
7" x 10" watercolor on paper
Sometimes it is easy to forget what a privelege it is simply to be alive. But horses don't seem to have that problem. They have no inhibitions, no social constraints holding them back from expressing who they really are. They are beautiful and powerful and honest about how they feel. Sometimes I wish I were more like that.
I finished a book by my favorite author Maggie Stiefvater the other day called The Scorpio Races. I loved it so much. So much that I wanted to paint something that would capture my feelings for this beautiful and moving book. This is my first effort. I'm sure I'll revisit this theme again. :)
Huzzah!!
Photo reference by Diedre T of her gorgeous Andalusian stallion, Enamorado. Thank you!
Aw, he's beautiful, Crystal. I love how you made him disappear and then reemerge from the dark background with those lost and found edges :). I enjoy being around horses; they really do embrace the whole idea of living life to its fullest, don't they?
ReplyDeleteWOW!!!!! Crystal, this painting is beyond fabulous. And inspirational. Don't be upset if you see a horse in big movement in my blog. You have done SUCH a magnificent job. I have to try something like it.
ReplyDeleteCrystal, you are so incredibly talented, there are no words for this, just so inspiring.
ReplyDeleteIt says so much more than just alive...I think freedom, strength, and free spirit. So beautifully done...just love it!
ReplyDeleteI saw this first on facebook and it is marvelous and it is so "you". Well done. =)
ReplyDeleteI'm astounded by this painting! Alive? I'll say! This horse looks like he could run right through my screen! The light hitting his silky coat and swishy tail is remarkable. I don't know how you do it, but you continue to amaze :0)
ReplyDeleteYour words reminded me of an older post of yours - some months ago at least. Hmmm.. I think you were running? And you were wishing you could leap up and hang from a branch of a tree or something? And then one day, when no one was looking you actually did it...? Yes, I think that was it?
I love how the painting looks almost abstract!
ReplyDeleteyou've really captured something special here. Vibrantly alive indeed. all that power and strength, stunning piece.
ReplyDeleteWow Chrystal:) This is a real beauty, the horse as well as the painting. I love the light in the middle of the horse and black/blue around the horse. Very nice job!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is amazing, Crystal! You have such a talent for capturing light. I love the rich colors too. You've outdone yourself once again!
ReplyDeleteGreat movement, Crystal. :)
ReplyDeleteWonderful motion/emotion Crystal. You do remarkable work with watercolor. Intimidating, but invigorating, just like the horse.
ReplyDeleteSuch movement and light - absolutely stunning - the photo must be fab too!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous painting,Crystal!!! You gave it the perfect title!!
ReplyDeleteOh MY! What a treat to see work of this caliber. I am sure glad you blog!
ReplyDeleteStunning.. I am dumbfouded.. Cant speak..
ReplyDeleteFabulous! Full of vigour!
ReplyDeleteSuch energy! Brilliantly portrayed....
ReplyDeleteI also love the choice of colours for the horse and the background, really makes him stand out.
Wonderful!
crystal, there is so much power and life in this painting that words fail me completely. this is a masterpiece in every sense of the word.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, Guvvna, you have surpassed yourself with this one. To create a painting is one thing ... but to create a living, breathing dynamic horse is totally brilliant.
ReplyDeleteOnce again, Crystal - a masterpiece
Fabulous painting!
ReplyDeletePowerful painting Crystal...more time to paint now that the little dudes are back in school?
ReplyDeleteAlive is the perfect title for this piece. So much drama and energy it can not be contained! I just love how you handled the lighting on the horse, the gorgeous colors, and your dramatic background!!! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteNothing more to be added... except maybe, WOW!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe Scorpio Races, huh? I think I've heard of it before, but now I'll go add it to my list. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteAs usual, I'm always impressed with your work. :)