Horses have an uncanny ability to reflect our innermost selves, serving as living mirrors to our souls. Their undeniable strength is matched only by their vulnerability, their wild nature tempered by an impossible grace. For me, they have always been more than just subjects—they are teachers, companions, and windows into the very essence of life itself.

My connection with horses began in the misty forests of childhood, where I first experienced the exhilarating freedom of riding alongside friends on their ponies. These early adventures planted the seeds of a lifelong passion that would intertwine seamlessly with my art. As my parents pursued their hunting expeditions in England, I found solace and excitement in the company of horses, each ride a new story waiting to be told.

My equestrian journey has taken me across the globe, each destination offering new perspectives on these magnificent creatures:

The pinnacle of my equestrian journey was the realization of a lifelong dream: building my AIA Design Award-winning ranch in Telluride. This sanctuary allowed me to have my horses on my own property, creating an immersive environment where I could ride, train, and share my passion with others. For seven incredible years, I lived my ultimate dream, fully immersed with my four-legged partners.

At the ranch, I was teaching Classical Dressage and founded an Adaptive Riding Program, sharing the transformative power of horsemanship with others. The importation of Lusitano stallions from Brazil added a new dimension to my equestrian pursuits, as I learned from them, trained them up the levels, each day a new lesson in patience, perseverance, and partnership.

My Arab gelding Paracz, whom I trained in Classical Dressage, became my trusted companion for cattle work and epic mountain crossings, proving that the bond between horse and rider knows no bounds. These experiences, from the refined art of dressage to the rugged demands of ranch work, enriched my understanding of horses and deepened my artistic inspiration.

Every horse I've encountered has imparted valuable life lessons:

When I paint horses, I strive to capture more than their physical beauty. I aim to portray their essence—the intangible qualities that make them such powerful symbols of freedom, strength, and grace. Each painting is an attempt to convey the spirit I've witnessed in countless encounters with these animals, from quiet moments in sun-dappled meadows to heart-pounding gallops across open plains.

My hope is that those who view my work will feel a connection to this equine essence, perhaps rekindling their own memories or sparking a new appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

As I continue this artistic journey, I'm constantly reminded of the profound impact animals can have on our lives. Horses, in particular, have been my greatest teachers, showing me the value of trust, the beauty of vulnerability, and the power of living authentically.

I invite you to reflect on your own experiences with horses or other animals. What lessons have they taught you? How have they shaped your perspective on life? Share your stories in the comments below—I believe that in sharing our connections with these remarkable beings, we can deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Remember, every interaction with a horse is an opportunity for growth, every moment a potential masterpiece waiting to be captured—whether on canvas or in the heart.