JAG and Treasure

I had the privilege of doing a painting of my friend's horses last month in their home pasture located in the Bountiful foothills of northern Utah. I even got to ride them and know their unique personalities somewhat before actually trying to paint them!

This past week, I was able to finish this piece of Brad, JAG and Treasure, two beautiful buckskins, on the Kings Peak trail in the Uintah Mountains of N/E Utah. I absolutely felt connected with this piece! I spent many days of my early life in these mountains and with horses, so it evoked many memories and emotions as I painted.

Again, I was able to take from a couple of photos to create this composite painting. I so enjoyed the experience!

Joseph and Hyrum

Once again, I have had another remarkable painting experience! My friend, Glenn Rawson, of the History of the Saints and Joseph Smith Papers TV programs, petitioned me to help him provide a painting for his upcoming program centered on the story of Joseph Smith's early ordeal and leg operation when he was a young boy.

Glenn gave me some of the text and asked if I could paint a scene depicting Hyrum's compassion for his younger brother as he recovered from such an ordeal. Hyrum was constantly at this side, giving him comfort and even supporting his leg so as to help ease Joseph's pain.

I only had a couple of days to complete the painting in order to meet the production deadlines so I painted quickly and decisively, not knowing exactly what the end result would actually be. This experience taught me so much ... I am thankful to Glenn for the opportunity! I have a new appreciation for these two brothers, for their family love, support and commitment to each other.

Houston Homestead

One of our dear friends asked me if I would do a painting of her grandmother on the front porch of her old Houston home. She sent me several reference photos of the home and of "Bernice", and from these I was able to make a composite painting. It was fun to come up with a composition that incorporated the white picket fence, the tire swing the beautiful trees and pink bushes, and even Bernice knitting in her rocking chair on the front porch! Very fun experience ...