Perhaps is an interesting word

First pass on a lovely Gypsy Vanner mare named Jenny

This painting does and will encompass various encounters with the word “perhaps”. Perhaps I would never have thought to do it if a very enthusiastic but elusive prospective client had not told me about her husband’s passion for Gypsy Vanner horses. Perhaps I would never have located the horse if she hadn’t reminded me that the mare had been won in a contest by Reins of Life Therapeutic Riding Centers, for which if you have followed me for long you know I provide both economic and promotional support. Perhaps I would not have had permission to photograph Jenny if I had not built up personal relationships with the horse’s trainer and with the staff of Reins of Life.

So here is the start of the painting, constructed from photos I took a couple of weeks ago as Jenny was being longed by her trainer. For once, perhaps, I had the foresight to photograph some scenic pasture backgrounds while I was there! Courtesy of Photoshop I removed the halter and longe line and transported Miss Jenny to this fall-color pasture, which was at the opposite end of the property where she was having her training session.

Now for the ultimate “perhaps”. When I finish this painting, perhaps I can make contact with my elusive maybe-client and persuade her to realize that she really, really wants this painting. This is one of those cases where someone is initially totally enthusiastic at a show, and then kind of disappears. I couldn’t ask her for a deposit at the time because I wasn’t sure I would be able to photograph the horse. But no matter what happens, I have to thank her for spurring me into action to arrange the photo session and “git ‘er done”.