Thursday, January 19, 2012

Beach Ball Classic



black mustang playing with beach ball by Anita Jesse

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Some horses, like some dogs, love playing with toys. These large balls designed to look like beach balls are popular examples of toys that provide long periods of entertainment for some horses. Our horses have not shown an interest in toys, but play "war games" with one another. They play combat and pretend they are prepared to fight to the death one minute and the next they go back to grazing side by side.

The mustang pictured here is one of those horses who is attracted to toys and was having a wonderful time with the brightly colored ball. That is when he wasn't running around the turn-out ring, chasing—or being chased—by a couple of dogs. Or, running just for the joy of having more space than usual and running to be running.

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Eclipse - A Velvet Darkness

Arabian horse portrait sepia by Anita Jesse
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I had never met this horse until April 2010. It was love at first sight—but, then, I have been known to fall in love at first sight before—with horses, that is. It doesn't hurt that he is owned by a dear friend. The black gelding has an air about him of being quite in control of himself and somewhat detached from his surroundings. His energy and athleticism are intoxicating and who could resist those delicate little ears?

A print of my impression of Eclipse sold at our Autumn Art Show, October 8 and 9. The lovely lady who bought the print was buying her second of my prints to add to her sizable art collection. I always feel fortunate to send a print to a home where it will hang with a nice collection of art on the walls. May it bring years of pleasure to the new owner.