Friday, March 20, 2009


I decided to get involved and donate some paintings to the local animal shelter. I got this terrific idea from visiting Sheila Tajima and Carrie Jacobsen's blogs. These generous ladies have created the Art For Shelter Animals blog and I think it is fantastic. I am posting this painting of a little house horse that I encountered a few weeks ago. He was walking with his owner (I'm not sure if that is the right word here) and looked so magnificent in the morning sunlight, that I couldn't resist taking a photo. I know he isn't looking for a home, but I loved his strength and purpose and perhaps that may symbolize in some way what we are all trying to do here. 

 9" x 12" 

 oil on canvasboard

13 comments:

  1. Vern, I think your work is truly wonderful. I thought the sushi piece was very strong. You are a delightful painter...I thought you WERE a professional! ps thanks for all your encouraging comments.jb

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  2. Great Great Dane, Vern! I love those 'house horse' dogs and you captured him(?) beautifully.
    It is a generous idea to use your work to benefit shelters as well.

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  3. Jeanne, thank you so much for stopping by and your wonderful comments, I am humbled.

    Hi Dana, glad you liked the great big Dane...he was a monster! I think painting for the shelters is going to be a whole lot of fun, but also very rewarding. Can't wait to start.

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  4. This is one beautiful dog, Vern. You really captured his long lines and his alertness so well! I like that cause, too; I'll check out the blog you mentioned.

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  5. What a beautiful painting for a great cause! Vern, my sister-in-law has a beautiful great Dane whom she rescued. He is the largest dog I have ever seen, but also the sweetest!

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  6. Thanks Camille, he is a beautiful pooch isn't he...even better in real life...about 4 ft. tall!

    Hi Akiko, and thank you, I'm really looking forward to getting started with this. It should be a lot of fun and rewarding at the same time.

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  7. Very nice job, Vern. I really like that you lightened the shadows of the legs as they lead away from the dog.

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  8. Thanks Ed, I appreciate all your comments and help.

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  9. Gorgeous painting, love the colours and the simple composition...no distracting fussyness! I admire your generosity, too, hope you have fun.

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  10. Thanks a lot Sharon, sometimes it's better when you don't know what to do...keep it simple.

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  11. Beautiful - the expression is priceless!

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  12. Thanks Olga, let's just say this guy was alert.

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  13. Magnificent painting of a beautiful creature!

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