Turquoise, also known as the "stone of life," has a special significance in Native American culture, where it is believed to be alive because of its ability to shift colors according to its environment. A story is told about a chieftain's daughter who so believed in the protective powers of turquoise that, instead of traditional feathers, she would weave tiny turquoise beads into her favorite stallion's mane and tail.
I have done many paintings and drawings for my clientele and have even had art displayed in the Oklahoma State Capital building.
Combining her two loves, horses and flowers, this artist has created a Painted Pony that features sixteen types of flowers native to North America: Golden Rod, Knotweed, California Poppy, Queen Anne's Lace, Virginia Bluebell, New England Aster, Indian Paintbrush, Purple Coneflower, Sunflower, Morning Glory, Bellflower, Thistle, White Clover, Sneezeweed, Joe Pye Weed and Chicory.
Born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Jennifer has had a love of all things equine all her life. Her mother first sat her on a horse when she was just three days old, and by six months she was an experienced trail rider.
Coming from an artistic family, she developed an interest and talent for painting and drawing early in life, as well as for entrepreneurial pursuits. Her first profits from her art came from the sale of horse drawings to her classmates for quarters during lunch when she was in elementary school.
Jennifer started working on horse farms at the age of 13, cleaning stalls and tack for the chance to ride aged Grand Prix dressage horses. After schooling she continued working horses and went on to manage a Thoroughbred horse farm for eight years. At the same time she supplemented her income as a fine artist (painting Amish buggy drivers for tourists), a functional artist (signs) and a picture-framer. Throughout it all, she says, “Nothing made me happier than creating one-of-a-kind works of art with horses as my subject.”
In Navajo mythology, Yei is the Navajo name for the benevolent supernatural beings who created the Navajo people, and taught them how to live in harmony with Nature. Depicted as kilted figures facing forward, with square heads, elongated bodies and raised arms, their image is featured in sand painting ceremonies and as designs woven into Navajo rugs and saddle blankets.
“Midnight Lullaby” is an artistic tribute to that magical time of day when the hustle and bustle of the day is over, the sun has disappeared like a taillight on the departing day, and beneath the emerging stars and a full moon the night has brought a quiet place of rest to the world.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
“Tribe of Equus” is a reflection of the artist’s deep connection to the spirit of horses, capturing their grace and strength in a kaleidoscope of hues. For the artist, joining their tribe isn't merely about belonging; it's a quest to find kindred spirits who share a passion for equines and art, celebrating creativity and honoring the profound bond between humans and animals, fostering a community where art serves as a bridge to understanding and connection.
Born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Jennifer has had a love of all things equine all her life. Her mother first sat her on a horse when she was just three days old, and by six months she was an experienced trail rider.
Coming from an artistic family, she developed an interest and talent for painting and drawing early in life, as well as for entrepreneurial pursuits. Her first profits from her art came from the sale of horse drawings to her classmates for quarters during lunch when she was in elementary school.
Jennifer started working on horse farms at the age of 13, cleaning stalls and tack for the chance to ride aged Grand Prix dressage horses. After schooling she continued working horses and went on to manage a Thoroughbred horse farm for eight years. At the same time she supplemented her income as a fine artist (painting Amish buggy drivers for tourists), a functional artist (signs) and a picture-framer. Throughout it all, she says, “Nothing made me happier than creating one-of-a-kind works of art with horses as my subject.”
As part of the legacy of Barbie™ and the commitment to inspiring girls to explore their limitless potential, The Trail of Painted Ponies is honored to introduce “Dream in Pink,” a new signature collectible by Emily Overman.
From the artist: “Growing up, my younger sister loved Barbie dolls, and her love for Barbie quickly grew on me. We would make elaborate setups, style all sorts of unique outfits, and make up imaginative storylines. We both have fond memories of all the fun we had. Barbie also encouraged my love for horses, with a wide range of horse related toys available. From a competitive show jumper to a western rider, and even a fairytale princess in a horse-drawn carriage, I could be the equestrian I always dreamt of being. It felt like owning my own horse. With Barbie, I could be anyone I wanted to be. Having nurtured my creativity in a significant way, Barbie will always have a special place in my heart. With bold style and confidence, Barbie empowers women to dream big and embrace their creative side.”
Haunted by restless spirits is he who runs like the wind,
when the moon shines full on All Hallows' Eve.
His hooves pound the ground as he wildly gallops on
like a melodic rhythm of drum and song.
- Poem by artist
Art has been a hobby for Crystal since early grade school. She’s done a little of everything – charcoal, pottery, stained glass, glass etching and native beadwork. When she started collecting Painted Ponies, Crystal felt inspired and out come her first Painted Pony, “Tatanka Ska,” which is Lakota Sioux for “White Buffalo.” Now Crystal has created her second figurine, "Ghost."
Traditionally worn by village chiefs or great warriors, war bonnets were symbols of power and authority, which is why they were often donned before riding into battle on the back of horses that were also decorated with feathered headgear. Here, the artist pays tribute to this unique comradeship with a warrior horse wearing its own beautiful war bonnet.
I immigrated to this country from Germany when I was just a child. I loved drawing and have always done art. As an adult pursuing it in an outside professional field at Shaklee Products designing labels, brochures, programs etc. I'm an award winning listed artist with my illustrations in published books and covers, some designs were on Garden Flags, and other household accessories. For years I was the art coordinator for the Midwest Horse Fair in Madison, WI. I've also been a chosen participant in two Canadian Mosaic Murals. From Murals to Miniature art, Rocks or any thing that doesn't move, I like painting on it. I also love Painting in Plein Air Events. My preference are animals with a specialty of horses. I donate the proceeds from my art to charities and organizations that are dear to my heart. I'm also known for being the girl on the SunMaid Raisin box since 1970.
Bald eagles are highly revered and considered sacred within American Indian traditions, culture and religion. They fly higher and see better than any other bird; and as they roam the skies are considered to be spiritual beings with a special connection to the Gods. For this reason, Native Americans have chosen the bald eagle and its feathers as a symbol of bravery, strength, power and freedom. They also signify a person who rises above the petty details of daily life to take in the big picture.
A graduate of the Illustration Department of the Kendal School of Design in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lynn began her career in retail fashion illustration, but is known today for her beautifully detailed and expressive paintings of birds, wildlife, horses, and Native Americans. Early in her career she specialized in watercolors, but her more recent work creatively incorporates hand-tooled copper, feathers, leather, horsehair and beadwork to produce interesting three-dimensional effects. When she is not exhibiting in juried shows around western North America, Lynn maintains a summer gallery in Sumpter, Oregon, where she sells prints, apparel, and beautifully crafted jewelry based on her unique designs.
As he steps onto the stone ledge that overlooks the valley below - his domain - the westerly winds whirl Zephyr's mane and tail so they look as if they are about to take flight. High in the mountains the crisp air fills his flared nostrils, as what he views gives him purpose and duty - the commitment to protect his herd, and at the same time remain a free spirit.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
Admired along with the Lone Ranger, Hopalong Cassidy and other childhood western heroes, were the white stallions they rode in on. White Beauty is one of those trusty steeds with almost mystical powers. He is a horse of purity. He represents courage and has no fear. Fittingly, he wears a fancy ebony show saddle, and invites you to hop on and go for a ride into the sunset of your dreams.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
Craftsmen have been creating iconic, tin-glazed, elegantly designed Delft Blue pottery for centuries. Inspired by Chinese porcelain, it is now considered a European art form that depicts symbols unique to the Netherlands such as windmills, landscapes and floral patterns based on vegetation native to that area. Delftware includes pottery objects of all descriptions, including plates, vases, tiles... and now a Painted Pony.
I have a BFA in sculpture from Virginia Commonwealth University and have enjoyed playing around with all sorts of artistic media for my entire life. My favorite subject has always been the natural world, and horses in particular hold a special place in my heart.
In the far north, where winters are harsh, there exists a Guardian Spirit Horse whose purpose is to protect the many creatures in his domain from harm. As he stands on guard, he hears the cries of a mama polar bear whose cub has fallen into the frigid waters and can’t get out. The Guardian rushes to the rescue, diving into the icy ocean and placing the cub on his back before returning him to safety and reuniting him with his frantic mama.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
Curious, diminutive, human-like beings with a reputation for bringing good luck, gnomes are thought to possess magical powers to protect people and reward them with happiness. They are especially believed to appear on Christmas Day, hand-delivering gifts to families, and spreading cheer and the Christmas Spirit.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
A beautiful Palomino rears up in excitement on Christmas Eve, her long mane and tail flowing as she dances in the new fallen snow, anxiously awaiting the coming events. What a glorious season, she seems to express in her joyful movements. She’s been lovingly dressed in her holiday finest – golden saddle blanket with fur trim, poinsettia details, and holly red saddle. She looks perfect, and is so proud to share this season, and the much awaited Christmas day, with those she loves.
I’ve been drawing since kindergarten and my love for Art has grown so much throughout the years. When started watching of Animal Planet at a young age, I fell in love with nature, which then became the staple of my art themes. I fell in love with horses and try every opportunity to be around or work with them that I can. I hope to share the power and beauty of horses through my art with others.
On Christmas Eve, when the world is quiet, still and white with snow, and a star-roofed sky twinkles above, the Christmas Snow Princess prances through the night, shimmering and sparkling as she carries beautiful snowflakes with her that she will release to create a dazzling, magical morning.
I am an artist who loves all the creative arts. I love to sing and dance, write songs and stories and draw and paint - bringing the things in my imagination to life. I have a great love for horses and I love,
love, love unicorns!
Mrs. Claus had the great honor this year of getting all of Santa’s ponies ready for Christmas. As she went down the line of stalls she came to Prancer, who whispered, “The arctic air is so cold, my feet are always freezing. A pair of booties tops my Christmas wish list.” To his surprise, the next morning Mrs. Claus arrived carrying a coat made of red velvet and a pair of Inuit Mukluk boots to keep his footsies warm.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
‘Tis the Season is a tribute to the natural beauty of a northern forest whose wintry woods provide the decorations for a traditional holiday season… from snow-covered fir trees that give off a delicious evergreen scent, to garlands and wreaths that are crafted from their branches, to frosted berries and sparkling pinecones that add joy and merriment to the season.
Art is an outlet I use to express the inspiration and beauty that I find in God’s creation. I have loved to draw since a very young age, and I enjoy working with both digital and traditional media. I am a recent college graduate with a BFA in graphic design. My primary interest as an artist is in illustration. My work often reflects my love for nature and fantasy, and I aspire to bring a bit of whimsy and joy to those who view it.
The holidays are here and there is nothing like Christmas in the city, when Christmas-themed traditions come to life; when public parks turn into winter wonderlands; when people munch on gingerbread and sip hot chocolate while watching holiday classics like The Nutcracker and Miracle on 34th Street; and when a Painted Pony, wearing silver bells and dressed in all the trimmings of the season, joins in the festivities.
Laura Robinson grew up riding and drawing horses at her home in Southern California. Sketching on any piece of paper she could find, she drew her favorite subject, the horse. She has always felt a deep connection with horses, and has been very blessed to have them in her life.
Winning awards in high school and college for art and design, it was evident that she should pursue the arts. So, after moving to Minneapolis, MN and getting married, she studied and worked in the graphic design field. Then, while raising a family of 3, she moved onto the fine arts. She currently works as a portrait artist and muralist. Her local horse community is enjoying their commissioned portraits of their beloved horses. She tries to learn something new from every painting she does, always trying to better her skills as an artist.
In addition to her art, she works as a groom and assistant trainer at a busy boarding stable, riding hunter/jumpers and dressage. In her “spare” time she landscapes her yard, mends fences, builds her own chicken coop, rides with her daughter, tries to keep up with her sons, and helps her husband with his electrical business! She finds that a little time in the barn is the best therapy in the world. The sweet smell of a horse’s breath, and a nicker from an old friend is very soothing and inspirational.
As the first snowfall of the year floats softly and silently down from the heavens above, the intricate detail that makes every snowflake unique seems to take on the larger aspect of a lace veil that coats a rearing pony, creating an image of grace and beauty and oneness with Nature.
Lorna Matsuda has spent her life devoted to her love of art and all animals, though horses are her passion. Combining her love of art and horses, Lorna creates memories and meaning in her paintings and other artistic creations. She enjoys painting realistic art to share with others, and feels very blessed to have been given this special gift.
