Art of Horse Racing

OoHA HUGS Ocala Reception

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:54:00 +0000

Please join us for a gala opening reception for "OoHA HUGS Ocala."

My artist salon "Out of Hand Artists" (OoHA) is conducting an Art Exhibit and Sale at the Brick City Center for the Arts in downtown Ocala. A portion of the proceeds will benefit H.U.G.S. Charities, Inc., a non-profit organization that raises funds for the research, prevention, detection and treatment of all forms of cancer and assists individuals and families whose lives have been adversely affected by it.

Out of Hand Artists is comprised of seven professional artists who meet twice monthly to discuss the business aspects of being an artist.

The details:

Gala Opening Reception:

Friday, November 6th, 2009 from 5:30-8:30pm. Brick City Center for the Arts 23 SW Broadway Ocala, FL 34471

Call moi for more info: 352-671-7469. All are welcome to attend.

Please join us for food and libations. This is an impressively strong exhibit of fine art and paintings. I promise you'll be amazed.

“An artist has every right - one may even say a duty - to exhibit his productions as prominently as he can” - Jacques Barzun

FAFO

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:01:00 +0000

My first fine art festival.

Oh yes, I've participated in numerous outdoor events of an equine nature. Those would be horse shows, steeplechase and race tracks when they'll have me.

This is the painting I began and shortly put away during last winter's season of horse and art recession. Missing my muse terribly, the festival was a good excuse to to revisit and make amends.

"Vying for Position" oil on canvas, 48"x68"

My studio and gallery partner, Jackie Schindehette and I each won an award. For mine, I have to thank, you guessed it, my muse(s).

Jackie & moi in my booth at the Ocala Fine Arts Festival.

"A couple of guys won Academy Awards for the things that I turned down. Today, after coming to terms with everything, after being in therapy for a long time-there are areas where I will compromise. " - Mickey Rourke

Preview Party

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:58:00 +0000

Consider this your invitation to our Pre-Ocala Fine Arts Festival Preview Party.

All are welcome and of course it's free. Get a sneak peek of our paintings being exhibited at the festival this coming weekend. My partner Jackie Schindehette is the hostess providing vittles as well as libations. Please come.

At our new studio/gallery:

Voilart!
108 E. Fort King St.
Ocala, FL 34479
(one block south of the central square)
Friday, October 23rd, 5-8pm

"I had reservations about making art a business, but I got over it." - Mary Boone

October Newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 19:54:00 +0000

I'm painting. And painting. Wanted to get the big canvas finished therefore everything else in my life has been neglected (this blog, husband, deranged cat, housework, etc.). As of this post it's finished but letting it sit for a few days so the flaws will make themselves annoyingly evident. Michael actually made a list of objectionable aspects such as: no forelocks are under the browbands (the better to add the dynamic), eyes have no color, bit at odd angle, suggest stick in jock's hand and the list goes on. He's like a professional witness. Gotta love and appreciate the honest critiques.

Here's a link to my latest newsletter with info on upcoming exhibits:
http://tinyurl.com/yfqurqj.
If you'd like a copy of my newsletter delivered to your inbox, please sign-up in the box at right. I promise to never share info (I hate spam too) or overwhelm with too-frequent mailings (that's a promise!).

"The harder you work, the harder it is to surrender". - Vince Lombardi

The State of My heART

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 17:45:00 +0000

Roller coasters are thrilling at the amusement park. Not so much in daily studio life.

It's tough love, babe. Deciding to separate from the muse can leave an artist treading water without land in sight. Placing a lifetime of passion and dedication up on the shelf calls for stern resolve of epic proportion. I did it, I experimented, and now I'm back to mend the relationship if only temporarily. Let's say we're dating.

Advice from friends and associates sounds something like this:
"It was a great ride while it lasted, wasn't it?"
"What a terrible time to be in the horse racing business - for anyone."
"Paint something else until the business fixes itself."

I'm a bit more optimistic about the future of horse racing. It will survive albeit not as we presently recognize it. Owners will continue to buy good horses as well as treat themselves to the luxury of expensive cars, beautiful homes and collect great equine art that elicits personal and emotional resonance. These purchases will occur within a changed climate, like everything else that's newly...changed. The smart artist acknowledges and is ready.

I'm so glad for the expansion.

"Full Cry" oil on canvas, 11"x14"

"Twilight" oil on two canvases, each 11"x14"

"If I keep a green bough in my heart, the singing bird will come." - Chinese Proverb

Back to the River

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 21:52:00 +0000

A bad day on the river is better that a good day in___(fill in the blank).

As we electric motored our way up the Oklawaha, we realized that a dredging company was fishing out the submerged logs and other flora to clear the waterway about two miles upstream from us. This made the water thick and murky and the big gators jittery. Saw a couple of biggies, probably 8-footers, but they hauled butt from us with annoyed attitude upon sighting the canoe. So, we had to settle for the wee ones sunning on the log pictured below. These were babies, and I apologize for not getting closer. Mama was nearby, no doubt.

Florida Wildlife authorities have been capturing these feral monkeys over the past year but missed this crewe. These rascals are several generation descendants of the escapees from film and TV productions at Silver Springs in the 50's and 60's. Think Sea Hunt and Tarzan.

This is the alpha male keeping a close eye on us.

Females with infants crossed the river over our heads.

Forgive the shakiness of this photo, but it is a...a...snake. This is a Florida Water Snake, unfortunately often confused with cottonmouths. Their color and markings are similar but the head shape is different. This sleek-headed snake was docile and ignored us.

“Cats and monkeys, monkeys and cats - all human life is there” - Henry James

International World Wide Paint Out

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 19:40:00 +0000

A hardy bunch of plein air painters descended on Ocala today in observance of the World Wide Paint Out. Gray skies and occasional rain did not deter these focused artists from painting, painting, painting. As a sheltered studio artist, I'm impressed.

Voilart! served as a base for the painters to check in and provide their approximate location, get a cold drink of water and most important - use the bathroom! And that's another challenge for these artists that I am just not aware of. I guess a tree would stand in for facilities when they paint in the woods.

Important equipment like this umbrella to serve rain or shine.

Love this woody that this painter works out of.

Some painters planned ahead such as Carole Drost
who's working on the porch of the Blakley House.

Heat, rain, wind, bugs, rapidly changing light, weirdos, animals - I admire them for their tenacity under all these conditions.

"All pictures painted inside in the studio will never be as good as the things done outside." - Paul Cezanne. Well, there you go.

Gala Ribbon Cutting

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 10:46:00 +0000

In a light drizzle and under a full moon we conducted our ribbon cutting ceremony last night for Voilart!

Holding the ribbon from left to right: Marion Cultural Alliance Executive Director Nancy Ledding; Marion County Administrator Dr. Lee Niblock; Florida landscape artist (my partner) Jackie Schindehette; moi; and Marion County Commissioner Barbara Fitos.

I love our red archway.

The turnout was fabulous and we were packed with well-wishers all night.

As enjoyable as it was, I'm relieved the various pomp and circumstance is over with, enabling Jackie and I to get back to the serious business of painting. We both have shows and exhibits fast approaching and need to buckle down and get productive.

Next Saturday Voilart! will serve as headquarters for local plein air painters participating in the International Worldwide Paint Out. We'll provide the initial sign-up for artists and also provide approximate locales where they can be found painting for interested observers. For more info check out the Ocala Plein Air Painters website.

"The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more." - Jonas Salk

It Has Arrived At Last

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:22:00 +0000

Food smells, ringing phones, neighbors meandering about, cats using litter boxes. If there's one thing I've learned throughout my incredulous painting career, it's that collectors are not quite comfortable visiting a home studio. Which brings me to clarify Reason No. 1 for embarking on the creation of Voilart! Studio/Gallery. The downtown retail space lends me some street cred. No more cramped garage - just a sleek gallery of well appointed paintings and an oversize easel standing like an authoritarian fraulein whipping me into submission.

Jackie helped me paint the 16 foot sign. Not too shabby for non-sign painters.

"One Mile and a Sixteenth (and change)" oil on eighteen 12" canvas panels.

When an artist creates a piece that strays from the predictable suspects, proper hanging and presentation is always a challenge. How satisfying to finally arrange the elements as they were originally intended. Although I always encourage creativity with my associates, this is a great homecoming of the artist's brainchild.

"There is a wonderful feeling when you walk into your own exhibition. You see the work as a true extension of yourself. Win or lose, your interests have led you to an accumulation of your personal expression, signed lower right, mounted to best advantage". - Robert Genn

Voilart! Preview Opening

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 11:42:00 +0000

Our Preview Opening last Thursday was full of surprises and enjoyed a great turnout. Flowers from well-wishers abundantly adorned the studio and Jackie and I worked the meet and greet opportunities.

Dr. Leslie Hammond, moi, and Terry Carey.

I hadn't seen Terry Carey in so long. She is a former gallery owner and now full-time artist. I was honored that Dr. Leslie Hammond paid us a visit. She possesses a most impressive academic resume longer than the length of the studio. Archaeologist, art historian, curator, instructor and owner of Artist Eye Fine Art, a full-service art appraisal and consultation business.

Jackie Schindehette and Susan Cassens in front of Jackie's exquisite landscapes.

Susan Cassens drove all the way up from Ft. Pierce to attend the opening. Susan and Jackie were partnered in a similar studio years ago. Speaking of partners, check out Jackie's website here.
Don't you love the chair rail Harry installed for her paintings?

Bill Steele, moi, and Ellie Steele

So many people have blessed me with their help and support getting this studio/gallery project launched. Bill Steele's generosity is over the top - printing a fabulous promotional blurb about Voilart! in the current issue of his incredible magazine, "Hold Your Horses". The magazine is quickly gaining reputation and attention as it goes national and even international!

"Selling is essentially transference of feeling". - Zig Ziglar

Another Reminder

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 23:20:00 +0000

Yes, it's another reminder but we've worked so hard to pull this off:

Reminder:

This coming Thursday, August 20th is the Preview Opening of Voilart! a working artists' studio and gallery. This preview coincides with "3rd Thursday's Girls Night Out" in downtown Ocala. Local businesses offer specials and discounts for the monthly event. Everyone is open late. Please stop by our new digs if you're in town: 108 E. Fort King St. (directly behind the Bank of America). Jackie Schindehette and I will be in the studio from 4:30-8:30pm.

Please be so kind as to forward this post to anyone you think would be interested. We really appreciate your help getting the word out.

“If one advances confidently in the direction of one's dreams, and endeavors to live the life which one has imagined, one will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” - Henry David Thoreau

Voilart! Details

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 18:34:00 +0000

The countdown begins for the Preview Opening of Voilart! this coming Thursday, August 20th.

Previously, I told you about my latest project: I've partnered with Florida landscape painter extraordinaire Jackie Schindehette to open our own studio/gallery in downtown Ocala. Located just one block south of the central square, the official address is 108 E. Fort King Street. With the help of our husbands, the space is just about ready. Paintings are being transported and hung this weekend.

What a surprise to open the morning paper and see this photo of Jackie's husband Harry polishing the front window! Apparently, Star-Banner staff photographer Alan Youngblood wandered in to chat and take pictures. Many thanks to Alan and the Banner!

Details:
Voilart!
108 E. Fort King St.
Ocala, FL 34471

Preview Opening: Thursday, August 20th, 4:30-8:30 pm.
Official Opening: September 1st, 2009

We'll be keeping regular days and hours that we've yet to determine. However, if you would like to visit the studio for a special viewing, please call 352-671-7469 for an appointment.

“Finite to fail, but infinite to venture.” - Emily Dickinson

Chow

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 20:00:00 +0000

A tragic event brought us together sixteen years ago, creating an indelible bond that would endure miles of travel through dubious exploits. Unbeknownst to the tiny fur ball, a mountain of hope was placed on the silly antics of kittenhood that would, could? disrupt a thick shell of depression. It worked.

He grew into a handful of big strapping cat for a Siamese. Classy with attitude, always present, game for the next adventure and trustworthy in a reliable way, he became a family member as embedded as DNA. Together we ate, slept and worked. In dark times, he possessed the uncanny ability to elicit a smile, regardless of circumstance.

In the end, he acquiesced to our pangs of impending loss with grace and courage. An entire lifetime of consistently providing what one can demand of a cat - the softness, companionship, the comforting sound of a purr, sandpaper licks and always unconditional devotion.

Fondest memories of eyes squinting in the sunshine, as baby blues are prone.

Goodbye for now, my sweet prince.

Chow
April 1st, 1993 - August 6th, 2009

“Give sorrow words. The grief that does not speak whispers the o'er-fraught heart, and bids it break.” - William Shakespeare

Opening Reception at Equidae Gallery

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:43:00 +0000

Reminder:

Tonight is the Champagne Opening at Equidae Gallery in Saratoga Springs, NY. It begins at 6:00 and is located at the Holiday Inn on Broadway. A great way to wrap up a day at the races. I have three paintings in the group exhibit of carefully chosen equine art. Artist and organizer Terry Lindsey has created an elegant and very classy show. The exhibit runs through Sept. 7th if you can't make it this weekend.

I Promised You Some Big News

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 20:14:00 +0000

But first:

My paintings have arrived at the beautiful Equidae Gallery at the Holiday Inn on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, NY. Fellow equine artist Terry Lindsey works an elegant miracle in organizing this spectacular presentation of not only her own terrific artwork but also the work of a formidable group of incredible horse artists. The gallery is just lovely and I'm honored to be included. If you're lucky enough to be in Saratoga this summer, DO make a point of stopping by - you'll be glad you did. And don't forget the Champagne Opening Reception on Friday evening, August 7th at 6-8pm.

Check out this fascinating website for horse lovers: The Equinest. It contains all kinds of extremely interesting topics that sets it apart from the rest. And I mean it's intriguing. This week an interview of moi is featured: Horse Artist Interview - Sharon Crute. It was fun answering the engaging questions. Read about my early years on the race track.

Okay, the big news: (drum roll)

I've teamed up with very well-known landscape painter Jackie Schindehette to open a studio/gallery space in a retail storefront in downtown Ocala. The impetus was my majorly disappointing negotiations with NYRA for vendor space at Saratoga that fell flat. But that's old news and this is new.

The timing is right, the price is incredibly right, the location is perfect, my partner is perfect. Together, Jackie and I look forward to painting, talking, schmoozing, painting, selling, marketing, promoting, and did I mention, painting? We'll be active participants in the downtown Ocala revitalization and look forward to a successful venture. It's my "Plan B" and am I ever jazzed! We're planning a preview opening on August 20th to coincide with "Thursday Girls Night Out" and an official opening on Sept. 1st. There is a down side to our exciting news - we'll be next door to Ocala Chocolates and Confectioners. Uh-oh.

Jackie is an important member of our salon, "Out of Hand Artists". In addition to being an awesome Florida landscape painter, she has years of experience at outdoor festivals, shows and is a rare artist who is creative AND a savvy business promoter. I look forward to partnering with her in this venture and learning from her vast knowledge.

Art isn't art until it's sold. Until then it's an obsession and a storage problem. - Anonymous

A Few New Pieces

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 20:20:00 +0000

I've been neglecting this blog something awful. No excuses. Apologies to my loyal readers.

Lots of events were set in motion when I finally realized that all my planning and marketing to NYRA was for naught. A year of negotiating, meticulous publicity packages and tentative scheduling were lost to a revolving door of upper management turnover. Lest I digress, let me just say initially, I was devastated before panicking into Plan B.

Hindsight is 20-20 and now I'm actually grateful for the whole bloody experience. Racetracks are wearing full cup blinkers while maintaining antiquated marketing strategies as the bad news just keeps rolling along. So, while I won't be personally traveling to Saratoga this summer, I've sent a few of my paintings up to the beautiful Equidae Gallery at the Holiday Inn and Soave Faire who is carrying my giclees - both on Broadway. The tough part is receiving calls from clients who were planning on visiting my booth on the racetrack grounds. Hear that NYRA? Huh?

Okay, I've vented and now promise you great news in a few days. In the meantime I'd like to show you a few oils that I've recently finished. Smaller, affordable original paintings. Click on the image for the details and info:

"Money in the Bank" oil on panel, 14"x11"

"After Breakfast" oil on canvas, 11"x14"

"Weanling Romp" oil on canvas, 11"x14"

"Look for and make your opportunities happen; they are not going to come rushing up to your doorstep. But sometimes they'll be looking you right in the face." - Harley Brown

Daytime Reception

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 16:04:00 +0000

Three receptions in eighteen hours! Yesterday my artist friend Jackie Schindehette and I headed up to Melrose Bay Gallery to attend the opening exhibit of Florida landscape artist Linda Blondheim. I'm always amazed at how a landscape painter can muddle through and edit all that green flora into a beautiful, cohesive and convincing piece. Linda makes it look easy.

Linda in front of her exquisite paintings of Florida landscapes.

Fellow landscape artist Jackie Schindehette and Linda Blondheim in front of Linda's paintings.

Linda also writes a facinating blog, Landscapes of the South, that you might want to wander over to visit. Besides her impressive paintings, her blog offers history and info of Linda's favorite places to paint plein air. Oh, and the recipes! Linda was a chef in a former life - attending one of her soirees is a culinary treat.

Custom-made birch panels are Linda's latest substrate of choice. Clean and contemporary, uncluttered by frames, the panels beautifully compliment her clear color and beckoning compositions of light.

"Plein air painting is still an interpretation of reality, even though I am seeing the scene first hand. My "truth" is far more interesting to me than the scene in reality." - Linda Blondheim

Night of Receptions

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 22:59:00 +0000

Did some gallery hopping last night. First stop - Gallery East in Belleview, Florida.

Gallery East:

Good turnout for this co-op in their new location.

l. to r.: best friend Modrea Seiler, featured jeweler Lynda Ryan in front of her lovely creations, and art lovers Drena & Ken.

Marion Cultural Alliance:

Then it was off to the Marion Cultural Alliance in Ocala for their exhibit "Shades of Green".

The gallery was hung beautifully.

l. to r.: moi with attitude, awesome Executive Director of MCA Nancy Ledding, best bud Modrea Seiler, and County Commissioner Barbara Fitos. All strong advocates for the arts.

Wonderful friend and talented artist Kelli Money Huff in front of her textured piece.

Another good artist friend (I love my fellow artists) Carlynne Hershberger with her beautiful mixed media. The "browns" are actually gold leaf that didn't translate in the photo but simply glowed. Kelli Money Huff and Carlynne published a book together entitled "Creative Colored Pencil Workshop".

Designer extraordinaire Paul Ware took an honorable mention for his whimsical stippled drawing. Paul's studio business is Drawn By the Light right here in Ocala.

"Every artist ought to be an exhibitionist." - Egbert Oudendag

Available Originals

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:28:00 +0000

I've had some requests to create a separate link on my website that lists only my available originals. The website is ever expanding and I can understand the frustration of collectors searching for new and available paintings as they muddle through the various galleries. So here it is: http://www.sharoncrute.com/availableoriginals.htm with a link "Available Originals" located at the bottom left of the opening page. The latest completed paintings will be posted ASAP.

Also, I'm sending out a separate e-newsletter for collectors who've requested first access to my still-wet-right-off-the-easel paintings. The first of these VIP e-newsletters should be launched in about a week or two. Paintings will not be posted anywhere prior to this exclusive mailing. Tiptoeing through this fresh effort, I don't want to exclude those who should be included. If I've overlooked, my apologies and shout at me to get it together.

"My career should adapt to me. Fame is like a VIP pass wherever you want to go". - Leonardo DiCaprio

Giclees: a Viable Alternative

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:35:00 +0000

Got a summer cabin or cottage that needs a bit of color? Have you recently remodeled a spare bedroom that needs some wall art? Or does your main living space need an inspiring face lift?

My giclee fine art reproductions are printed on quality canvas with archival UV inks. They're stretched and resemble the real thing except they're an extremely affordable option. Of course, nothing can compare to investing in original paintings, but giclees offer an inexpensive alternative for decorating purposes.

I've moved in the direction of open editions that offer more choices to my clients while maintaining reasonable pricing. Limited edition runs are still available and here I illustrate just a few. The image to the left, "Get His Mind on Running" is sold out at 100 plus 10 artist's proofs. Below are a couple of editions that are still available yet very close to concluding the edition run. If they appeal to you, consider ordering soon: Click on the image for more info.

"Daybreak" 30"x40" giclee fine art reproduction

"Not Whisperers" 36"x48" giclee fine art reproduction

In addition to the UV inhibiting and water-resistant coating, I've finally discovered an impasto medium that pleases the artist in me... offering a giclee with dimension and brushstrokes further creating a quality product.

“These are not my works; these are just prints of the originals. Really, what we're showing here is the record of what happened, what I went through physically [and] emotionally in every aspect, what I went through to get these paintings done, and this is what I have left. I just wanted to share my voice. ” - Abelina Galustian

I'll Paint YOU and Your Little Dog too!

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 22:10:00 +0000

Well, my last post may have been just a tad vague.

To be a bit more specific, I'm considering re-inventing myself. When word got out that I was stepping back from painting horse racing subjects for awhile I was confronted with exclamations of jaw dropping, eye popping: "what ever will you paint now?" A decent artist who can draw well and understands color should be able to paint anything. Even my closest friends seemed astonished that I would endeavor to paint something non-equine.

Seems I've branded myself into a very tight little niche.

Therefore, I'm opening up the phone lines, the studio, the paint box and this blog to announce this amazing one-of-a-kind painting dynamo who will paint your kids, your yacht, your trophy bass, street machine, prize-winning cucumbers, favorite NBA player, copies of Kinkade nirvana...heck, I'll even paint your house. But don't send your money yet 'cause there's more: I'll even paint your champion Jack Russell! And if you call within the next twenty minutes, I'll throw in a free t-shirt! (while supplies last)

“People like to feel they are buying of their own good judgment as a result of the information given them” - Paul Parker

Deconstructing an Art Career

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 23:21:00 +0000

Spent a long productive day in the studio back at the big, looming racing canvas. I've dabbled at those runners on and off while I attend to neglected...stuff. Who knew that would take days? And there's always bookkeeping beckoning me like a deranged foreigner with arm outstretched and finger curling. I'm waiting for art supplies that are back ordered. Back ordered? Are we artists spending that much again already?

in progress oil on canvas, 48"x68"

There won't be too many of these big racing canvases for awhile. I'm stepping out into uncharted territory to try new creative endeavors. So long for now, luvs.

Did you hear that noisy clanging and crashing sound? That's just my dreams being shaken up good and tossed out in disordered, tumultuous patterns. Thank you trepidation.

"If you don't like what you're doing, you can always pick up your needle and move to another groove." - Timothy Leary

T-Shirts

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:27:00 +0000

Technology can make us feel overwhelmed or it can be the coolest thing since the AC adapter in my Jeep. With iron-on transfers, advancements have created a product that delivers. Applied to any color t-shirt and washed countless times, these t-shirts hold their weight against any screened product.

This is Michael's little red wagon. He enjoys taking my latest images and finding the perfect background. Here's the predominately cool-toned "Neck in Front" on a medium blue shirt. Looks good on gray as well.

Do you recognize that hand?

Here's the man with "Horsepower" on a dark beige background. Chocolate brown and taupe is also sharp.

We also offer tees in youth sizes and women's styles. It's hard to tell, but the pink has a softer, smaller neck and shorter sleeves and body length.

Two years ago I asked Michael to make me a tee that I could keep by the washer. Every time I washed a load of laundry, I threw in the tee. I'm so happy with the outcome and confident of this product. If you'd like more information, contact me through my website. We wholesale for retailers with sizable orders and can also produce small numbers. Even just one.

Remember, any image on my website can be applied to the t-shirt. And on any color.

"The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist." - t-shirt quote, author unknown.

Ramblings and Rants

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Sun, 24 May 2009 19:48:00 +0000

It's a week after my exhibit in Lexington and I've processed the PSB (post show blues). With a few days to mull over the exhibit and attempt a business/exhibit plan for the immediate future this summer, I'm sort of stymied.

Phone contact with NYRA a couple of days ago has me questioning Saratoga plans. Although I've always considered road trips and out-of-state exhibits important, fact is they're also expensive. Vendor fees and lodging are not cheap, especially in Saratoga.

Racetrack attitudes are so out of touch with today's fan base and marketing needs, they sound as if they're speaking to me in 1980. As I inquired about my status as a artist vendor, and mind you, they've passed the buck and strung me along all year, the snippy answer was "we're a race track you know". Hmm...and also a business with a terrible image problem that's losing it's fan base like lemmings and doing nothing to attract a new audience. Did they notice the stats this past week of increased handles of ADW's (advanced deposit wagering) in Bloodhorse? So darn convenient to watch and wager on racing anywhere in the world 24/7 from the comfort of your living room.

Say what you will about Frank Stronach but he saw the writing on the wall over ten years ago when he speculated that racing centers would need to cater to the demands of an evolving clientele. In Lexington last weekend, I fielded the comments, concerns and observations of people who love my artwork but worry about the current state of horse racing. I did my best to defend and promote my business as I ALWAYS do.

Forgive me, this is turning into a rant but there is no other horse racing artist who elevates, upholds and furthers the cause of the power and beauty of the sport. It's my passion and my muse.

As I attempt to make sense of these antiquated attitudes, I wonder if my needs would not be better served right here at home. Is the grass greener elsewhere? Perhaps the answer is right under my nose!

"An artist's duty is rather to stay open-minded and in a state where he can receive information and inspiration. You always have to be ready for that little artistic Epiphany." - Nick Cave

High Hopes at High Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Sharon Crute) — Tue, 19 May 2009 02:30:00 +0000

High Hope Steeplechase at the Kentucky Horse Park was a success on many levels. My booth was mobbed with art admirers all day and the opportunity to interact was priceless. Don't let this photo be an indicator, it was taken early right after set-up.

Many people are hesitant to approach artists and engage in conversation about their artwork. Whether it's because they're unsure how to "speak art" or because the artist is intimidating (and some are downright scary), these outdoor shows are a chance to discover initial reactions.

The most frequently asked question was: do you paint from photos? I'm taking this question home with me to ponder an effective answer. The short answer was yes, sometimes. On the inside, I want to explain the long hours spent with anatomy books spread out on the studio floor, one crappy drawing after another, imploring Michael to pose into pretzel positions and the ultimate frustration - scraping the paint off the canvas to start over. Sigh. But then I'd sound like the tormented idiot stereotype and they would surely take flight. So, my answer was to describe various references, but a more interesting response is needed.

Oh, but when they tell me they feel as if they are about to be run over by one of my painted horses, my heart does a happy dance.

"For your information, I would like to ask a question." - Samuel Goldwyn