May 1, 2010

Kentucky Derby Bling

12 x 16
oil on canvas

Today a hat won't help much. With torrential rains expected, a large tarp will be the order of the day at Churchill Downs, which I'm sorry to say also makes it tough for the horses. 

Writer Tom Pedulla says that most jockeys don't even see their horses until it is time for their race to begin, but Derby winner Calvin Borel goes out early every morning to visit the horses and "learn their nuances". Calvin explains "I get on all my horses and work them. Every horse is not the same--every horse has a different key to him. You've got to get to them in the morning and find the key".  Having dropped out of school after the eighth grade, he is proof that school is only one aspect of receiving an education. I find his genuine love of horses and dedication to excellence most inspiring

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Clutch thy pearls!
& that's how a girl goes to derby...

Linda Popple said...

I like this perspective of painting the hat from behind. Great composition Nice painting!

Tracy Wall said...

Ditto Linda about the composition and pose. And what a race! Yes Borel is inspiring, but oooooh if Icebox had just a few more furlongs......

Edward Burton said...

Wonderful piece, Faye - very nicely composed.

Gwen Bell said...

Great nod to the Derby! Love your treatment of the straw hat and the satiny gloves. The limited palette works beautifully!

Marian Fortunati said...

I love all the different interests we all have... Fun painting, Faye!!