My Little Pony (in real life)

When I was 10, growing up in Chicago, my sisters were embarrassed to walk to school with me. The fact that I ‘galloped’ all the way on my imaginary horse was more than they could take.I galloped anyway, fueling my cowgirl dreams with visits to the library. I read every horse book they had, especially the Black Stallion book series by Walter Farley. At 45,  I finally signed up for a four week series of lessons, learning to saddle, groom and ride. I have a powerful memory of walking to the corral, leading the horse, and feeling like that kid … Continue reading My Little Pony (in real life)

The Four Gracielas

Once upon a time, families had portraits painted of their children when they reached a certain age. The paintings were displayed in their homes (or castles, as the case may be) to celebrate their long lineage. A number of my clients have kept up this tradition, and had me create a special portrait of each child, usually around 5-7 years old. Today I can combine the realism of a photographic portrait with the elegance of a painting. A true likeness, that captures their sweet young faces, before their adult teeth came in and everything changed. A true portrait of childhood. … Continue reading The Four Gracielas