Sound The Bugle Studio

Newest portrait---first for 2012!

2012-01-09T06:14:00.003-05:00

Benlea Sealily, "Lily." 2012. 11" x 14" acrylic on canvas.
A lovely Welsh Pony mare to welcome 2012!

Lily and her rider, Caylei Arnold, were Pace for a Purpose superstars! Well done, you two.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2012-01-01T12:05:00.003-05:00

My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut will be completed this year...

...and hopefully published as well.

as 2011 comes to a close...

2011-12-29T07:12:00.002-05:00

...I reflect on the lessons learned.

2011 was a great year--and I expect 2012 will be even better. Thank you for supporting this happy artist.

my thoughts on 2011 as it flies into the sunset:

There are no shortcuts. Art and writing require work and commitment. But, it all starts with one word and one brushstroke. Before you know it, you have completed something.

Surround yourself with people who encourage you to pursue your dreams.

Wake up grateful every morning.

If you have left something behind, there must be a good reason for it. Don't look back, keep moving forward.

I wish you health, happiness and laughter for 2012.

With gratitude,
Helen

Collaboration Announcement--JEWELRY!

2011-12-18T06:39:00.008-05:00

I am SO THRILLED to announce my collaboration with Cape Cod-based jewelry designer and my dear friend, the fabulously talented Sarawaxwing.

Sara creates gorgeous glass tile pendants--and now, she features two of my dressage-themed designs. You can purchase them here at her Etsy store:

Dressage Pendant--"Bend"

and here

Dressage Pendant--"Bend II"

I love jewelry and horses!

Sara and I decided to join forces and design and create what we would want to wear in equestrian-themed jewelry. We hope you love them as much as we do.

Watch for more designs! I will be creating more images--breeds, disciplines, etc. What would you like to see? Leave suggestions in comments.

Exciting stuff!

And be sure to join the studio facebook page here: Helen Scanlon Facebook Page

Whew, that's a lot of news...Hope everyone is enjoying the Holiday season. I love the chilly air and the Christmas lights. *big smile*

Thank you for your support!

Thank you!

2011-11-30T06:30:00.007-05:00

Thank you for another wonderful Holiday Open Studio!

Small business Saturday is really catching on. Small businesses don't have lines, hassles or pepper spray. Aaaaaah...isn't that better? (I read those horrible stories about Black Friday shopping and I just cringe. Stay safe, stay sane--wait a day then go out and support a local artist or craftsperson. We may have cookies for you, too. Wal-Mart can't make that claim!)

Watch this space for exciting announcement (it has to do with JEWELRY!)...and feel free to join me on Facebook:

Helen Scanlon Facebook Page

Thank you so much for your support of this happy artist and writer!

Holiday Open Studio

2011-11-09T07:14:00.002-05:00

Every year since 2003, I've held a Holiday Open Studio. I actually clean up and get cookies and everything.

It's a blast! Come on by! My paintings for the book will be there--and they're for sale.

Sound the Bugle Studio's Annual

Holiday Open Studio

Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011 from 10am-4pm

6 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, Connecticut.

Helen Scanlon, Equine Artist

Hope to see you!

Sidenote: Hampton is beautiful and charming New England town with many historic homes, farms and rolling hills. A drive down Main St. (on the way to my studio!) is sure to get you in the Holiday spirit---all of the white candles in the windows and evergreen wreaths with red ribbons. So wonderful!

Learn more about Hampton here: www.hamptonct.org

above image is a detail from Lusitano Grey, offered for sale. Ask about my interest-free payment plans! You can own the painting you love--I want to make that happen for you.

The fall/winter itinerary--mark your calendars!

2011-09-12T08:14:00.004-04:00

Hello Friends and Supporters of Sound the Bugle Studio!

I hope you are having a wonderful summer and are looking forward to fall. Fall, as some of you may know, is my favorite season. The studio gets super busy in preparation for the Holidays, and my creativity goes into overdrive. I love it!

Lots of great stuff happening here at Sound the Bugle Studio:

--As you may or may not know, I am writing a book called My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut. I’ve written 32 chapters, only eight more to go. The book will feature photos and my illustrations as well. Check out the book blog and follow along:

http://myhorsemyheartbook.blogspot.com/

--My artwork will be displayed at the Willimantic Food Co-op for the month of October. LOTS of new paintings! The Co-op is at 91 Valley St., Willimantic, CT

--Mark your calendars: My Holiday Open Studio is scheduled for Saturday, November 26, 2011 from 10am-4pm. Sound the Bugle Studio is at 6 Kenyon Rd., in beautiful Hampton, CT.

Some of my inventory will be 10% off! I will also have Holiday cards for sale, and as always, I offer Gift Certificates.

NEW!!!

I want to make it easy for everyone to own the painting they love—so now I am offering interest-free payment plans for up to six months. It’s important that my paintings go to good homes—so, if you connect with a certain piece, I want you to have it. Talk to me!

Thank you so much for your support. Hope to see you soon!

Helen

...Fall is around the corner...then...

2011-09-06T07:10:00.003-04:00

Back to the Barn, 2010. 30" x40" acrylic on gallery wrap canvas. For sale!

...before ya know it, the Holidays will be upon us!

Now's the time to start thinking about giving the gift of art!

I offer gift certificates in any amount--AND--I can do a custom pet or horse portrait as a gift for a special someone if you commission me now.

The process is super easy, and I will be with you every step of the way. E-mail me at
soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net or call me at 860-455-1965. We can discuss medium, budget, size, etc.

If you see a piece of art that you REALLY want, but may not be able to afford right now, I offer interest free payment plans for up to six months.

Hope to talk with you soon! And watch for open studio announcements....

and as always, thank you for your support!

Bend II

2011-08-23T16:57:00.003-04:00

Bend II, 2011. 18" x 24" acrylic and vine charcoal on canvas.

A spontaneous painting---FUN!!!

I love the many angles in dressage. With this painting, I focused on being quick and loose--careful not to get fussy and overwork the line and color. This painting almost jumped off the canvas and exclaimed, "leave me alone now!" LOVE that! And I LOVE those happy accident drips. They form such a neat texture on the canvas.
The vine charcoal I used for the outline drawing mixed with the paint and added even more texture. I don't tell charcoal to go away--it deserves to be there on the canvas, right with the paint.

For this painting, I thought of my old friend, the big chestnut warmblood, Ursus. He was such a powerful presence. He inspired me.

This piece is for sale, e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net to inquire.

Bend

2011-08-21T17:23:00.002-04:00

Bend, 2011. 18" x 24" acrylic on canvas.

Fresh off the easel!

this piece is for sale, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net to inquire.

scenes from a busy studio!

2011-08-21T08:04:00.004-04:00

Hard at work! Here I am painting UC Doc Daniels, Morgan stallion (photo by the fabulously talented Roxanne Pandolfi)....
...Ghee always reminds me to take a break and get some sunshine.
....Skeeter watches over my paintbrushes.
....and, Mouskeowitz has a nap in the studio. In a painting.

All in a day's work!

The Chronicle story

2011-08-14T07:36:00.003-04:00

Wow, way cool! Here's my article in the Willimantic, CT Chronicle newpaper. Thanks to Heather Lake and Roxanne Pandolfi.

And yes, Ringmaster is a stallion! :-)

click on it so you can read it... thanks to everyone for their support!

War Horse

2011-07-11T18:16:00.001-04:00

...my book is moving along nicely....be sure to check in at myhorsemyheartbook.blogspot.com

And here is the trailer for War Horse, directed by Steven Spielberg. Looks amazing, looks real, looks like I'll be taking a box of Kleenex to the movie theater....

UC Toronado

2011-06-06T07:36:00.002-04:00

UC Toronado, aka "Gideon," 2011. 14" x 18" acrylic on canvas. (click on pic to get close up)

This painting is for my book, My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut.

UC Doc Daniels

2011-05-16T16:36:00.002-04:00

UC Doc Daniels, Morgan stallion bred by the University of Connecticut, 30" x 30" acrylic on gessboard.

...um, that's...um..who's that?

2011-05-07T08:05:00.002-04:00

Happy Derby Day!

Wishing all horses and jockeys a safe, fun trip.

And now, let's rewind to 2009 when Mine that Bird came outta nowhere and blazed along the rail and snagged the win. You could almost hear the announcer shuffling papers...that's...um...who is that?

It's MINE THAT BIRD. Go Little Birdie Man!*

*Jockey Calvin Borel's nickname for Mine that Bird.

The Darley Arabian

2011-04-20T09:58:00.004-04:00

Legend V: The Darley Arabian, 2011. 19" x 20" charcoal and conte on burgundy Canson Mi-Teintes. (Vaughn/Lahoski collection, CT)

The Darley Arabian was a delicately beautiful bay Arabian stallion and is one of the three founding sires of the Thoroughbred breed.

All modern-day racehorses can trace their lineage back to either the Godolphin Arabian, the Byerly Turk or the Darley Arabian.

These historically significant Arabian stallions were known for their stamina, speed and power.

Next--Legend VI: The Byerly Turk!

Man o' War

2011-04-19T10:24:00.003-04:00

Man o' War, 2011. Acrylic on canvas, 16" x20"

Wow, I had so much fun with this painting!

I had a craving to paint Man o' War in a classic conformation pose using bold color and line.
This painting also features little touches of iridescent copper and silver paint.

This painting was done without a reference photo; I used the images that are forever burned in my brain of this great horse.(I've only been ooohing and aaahing over Man o' War since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, so I had a lot to go on.) *smile*

Man o' War is for sale, e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net to inquire.

STALLIONS RULE!

2011-04-18T11:16:00.004-04:00

here's a freehand pencil sketch I did this morning.

I decided this might be nice for a large-scale painting...?

Whenever I want to jump-start the creative process, I draw a stallion--nostrils flared, eye whites flashing...

Drawing a stallion always reminds me why I wanted to be an equine artist. :-)

New Book Illustration

2011-04-03T10:08:00.004-04:00

UC Cannie and Foal, 2011. Watercolor pencil and ink. Copyright Helen Scanlon.

chapter excerpt:

Born in 1949 to the to athletic and exquisitely feminine mare, Phillipa, and the majestic stallion, Canfield, Cannie possessed a brilliant chestnut coat and a small star on her face with a tiny smidge of a snip on her muzzle. Her eye was large and bright; her attitude kind and willing.
~Helen Scanlon, from My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut

follow the book adventures here:
My Horse, My Heart: A Book Journey

The book journey continues....

2011-02-21T08:57:00.004-05:00

UC Ringmaster as a foal, 2011. Watercolor pencil and ink illustration for My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut.

follow the book adventures here:
My Horse, My Heart: A Book Journey

Book Blog!

2011-01-25T05:36:00.004-05:00

Now you can follow all of my adventures as I write and illustrate My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horse of the University of Connecticut.

Go here:

My Horse, My Heart: A Book Journey

BIG PROJECT! Revealed!

2011-01-23T07:34:00.002-05:00

If you guessed that I am writing a book, you guessed correctly!

It's called My Horse, My Heart: The Morgan Horses of the University of Connecticut.

Am I illustrating it, too? Um, YES!

(wow, I have a lot of work to do!)

I have three chapters done, only about 20 more to go.....

Watch this space for a blog link for a My Horse, My Heart book blog. I can't wait to share all of my writing and research adventures with you!

Thank you for your support, as always.

ZENYATTA! Horse of the Year!

2011-01-18T06:33:00.002-05:00

You did it, Big Girl!

Congratulations! At last, a smile through my grief. I'd like to think Nim Nim and Cavan whispered in some ears at the Eclipse Awards last night.... :-)

Go, Go, Zenyatta!

to those we lost this month...

2011-01-17T06:38:00.009-05:00

Cavan: this is the painting I did of him a few years back. I was his groom at Woodcock Hill Riding academy and I was his friend. He enjoyed his retirement at my brother's farm and he loved working the fields with him. He also carried my niece to victory in a local horse show: Reserve Champion! I loved him for over twenty years. He was a very, very good boy. We all miss you, Little Man! (that was a nickname his great friend Nikki gave him many years ago and it stayed with him. It fit him so well).

Ah, steeds, steeds, what steeds! Has the whirlwind a home in your manes? Is there a sensitive ear, alert as a flame, in your every fiber? Hearing the familiar song from above, all in one accord you strain your bronze chests and, hooves barely touching the ground, turn into straight lines cleaving the air, and all inspired by God it rushes on! ~Nikolai V. Gogol, Dead Souls, 1842, translated from Russian

This is my Nim Nim. CRF took him away from me and we sent him to his green blankie throne in Heaven this past Saturday. He was always there, for 15 years, and now he is gone. I thought I heard his claws clicking on my floor...I swore that any minute he'd be howling at me demanding his breakfast. There is no more breakfast time. But, he is out of his agony. Daddy and I miss you and the tears will easily come for a long, long time.

I'm Still Here

Friend, please don't mourn for me
I'm still here, though you don't see.
I'm right by your side each night and day
and within your heart I long to stay.

My body is gone but I'm always near.
I'm everything you feel, see or hear.
My spirit is free, but I'll never depart
as long as you keep me alive in your heart.

I'll never wander out of your sight-
I'm the brightest star on a summer night.
I'll never be beyond your reach-
I'm the warm moist sand when you're at the beach.

I'm the colorful leaves when fall comes around
and the pure white snow that blankets the ground.
I'm the beautiful flowers of which you're so fond,
The clear cool water in a quiet pond.

I'm the first bright blossom you'll see in the spring,
The first warm raindrop that April will bring.
I'm the first ray of light when the sun starts to shine,
and you'll see that the face in the moon is mine.

When you start thinking there's no one to love you,
you can talk to me through the Lord above you.
I'll whisper my answer through the leaves on the trees,
and you'll feel my presence in the soft summer breeze.

I'm the hot salty tears that flow when you weep
and the beautiful dreams that come while you sleep.
I'm the smile you see on a baby's face.
Just look for me, friend, I'm everyplace!

Author Unknown

tears another loss...Goodbye, Nim Nim

2011-01-15T15:58:00.039-05:00

Nim Nim, the Mighty Lion King, surveys his Kingdom from his green blankie throne.
Nim Nim tries to get the catnip candy cane from Skeeter! Fun times!
Nim Nim, in healthier days.
Nim Nim, about a month before he left us.

Last night, my elderly cat, Nim Nim, started acting like it was time to go. He was 20, and had battled renal failure for two years. He was stabilized with special food, but eventually it caught up with him...and he went downhill fast. Just yesterday morning he was eating with gusto and jumping on the couch. By last evening, he was staggering and howling. But he still begged for the chicken I made for our dinner. I gave him his beloved chicken and he ate it with a quiet gratitude. How he loved chicken! He couldn't resist it, even in his weakened state. I gave him as much as he wanted...I knew our time together was coming to a close. I wanted him to have that joy.

This morning, he was barely able to walk and he hardly touched the wet food he loved so much. I even offered him a piece of chicken from the last night's dinner. He didn't touch it. My husband, Steve, and I promised him long ago that when he found no joy in eating, we would release him. Eating brought him such happiness: he would always meow at me "hurry your ass!!!" at feeding time. He would always get so impatient with me--I moved much too slow in the morning.

But, this morning, he was telling us he was ready to move on and leave this life; a life he shared with me and Steve for 15 years--before we were even married. He was with us through four moves and a bunch of jobs. He was there when we cried, when we laughed and when we celebrated. He was there when we came home after our wedding and he helped us open our gifts. He slept near us for many years and was always a perfect gentleman. I know he didn't like it when his bowels didn't cooperate any more and when he became thin; his beautiful buff coat losing its fluff and luster. He was proud, after all. He was my Lion King.

I wrapped him in his favorite green blankie and we drove to the vet. He snuggled his weary head into my chest as I softly stroked him and whispered my promises of love to him. He did not struggle. Occasionally he would lift his head to look at me and his "daddy." He had a tired kitty smile. Although he became deaf as old age gripped him, I am sure he could feel my chest vibrate with words as I spoke.

He loved us too, but love could not heal his kidneys and take away his pain. We had to give him the ultimate gift of love, today.

We heard you, sweet Nim...

My vet, the wonderful Dr. Todd Friedland, helped him on his final journey at 11am. It was so quick, so painless, so peaceful. Steve and I were at his side reassuring him that we would see him again someday. I told him it was summertime where he was going. We would be together again, even if he waited a long time for us. It would happen.

We rescued him 15 years ago. Some heartless person had probably dumped him in the woods behind a co-worker's house. My co-worker at the time, Debbie, came into work one day and told me the tale of a gorgeous, sweet fox-tailed cat that was living in her woods and she asked me if I wanted him. I said yes.

The day I made him mine, Debbie called to him and he came trotting out of the woods to greet her. I put him a carrier, took him home, and he nestled in our hearts. He was so happy and grateful to be in a safe place, surrounded by toys, food, beds and of course, love.

The cruel person who dumped him in the woods behind Debbie's house would never know the depth of love that Nim Nim so freely offered. He was a kind and noble soul who did not deserve to be dumped like garbage. We were honored to rescue this cat with the wise owl face and the jewel-green eyes. Many, many thanks to Debbie for asking me to adopt him all those years ago.

There is no love like that of a rescued animal. They reward you everyday with heaps of love and gratitude; enriching your days with laughter, joy and friendship. My life was richer because of Nim. Thank you, my dear, dear boy. I hope you have mountains of chicken and stinky tuna juice to feast on.

I will miss you, everyday.

and now something to make me smile--a basket full of baby Nim Nims:

Goodbye to my dear old friend, Cavan

2011-01-14T15:18:00.006-05:00

Cavan, happy in his retirement at Caledonia farm. Grass as far as the eye can see! Every horse should be this blessed.
Cavan with his buddy, Farmer Dave. Here he is teaching another horse, Noble, how to not be afraid of a harness. Such a wise and patient teacher.
Cavan in 1991 teaching a student how to ride.
Me and my old friend, 2008.

Don't Cry for the Horses

Don't cry for the horses
That life has set free
A million white horses
Forever to be

Don't cry for the horses
Now in God's hands
As they dance and they prance
To a heavenly band

They were ours as a gift
But never to keep
As they close their eyes
Forever to sleep

Their spirits unbound
On silver wings they fly
A million white horses
Against the blue sky

Look up into heaven
You'll see them above
The horses we lost
The horses we loved

Manes and tails flowing
They Gallop through time
They were never yours
They were never mine

Don't cry for the horses
They will be back someday
When our time has come
They will show us the way

On silver wings they will lift us
To the warmth of the sun
When our life is over
And eternity has begun

We will jump the sun
And dance over the moon
A Ballet of horses and riders
on the winds
to a heavenly tune

Do you hear that soft nicker
Close to your ear?
Don't cry for the horses
Love the ones that are here

Don't cry for the horses
Lift up your sad eyes
Can't you see them
As they fly by?

A million white horses
Free from hunger and pain
Their spirits set free
Until we ride again.

-Brenda Riley Seymore

Good bye, Cavan....I will miss you.

Love from your friend and former groom,

Helen

One eleven eleven! Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T08:02:00.007-05:00

(my yard, Dec. 24, 2010)

2011 is here!
And it's LIST TIME!

musings about 2010:
1. My studio received a lot of great press in 2010. (yay! Yippeee! *cartwheels*)
2. Many of my paintings and drawings went to wonderful new homes--I can't even begin to tell you how much this gladdens my heart. Thank you all for your support.
3. I began the Big Project and it ignited a creative fire.... (So when are you going to tell everyone about this mysterious project, Helen??? SOON. The wheels are in motion....)
4. My husband and I celebrated 14 years of marriage in 2010. We were able to spend time on Cape Cod beach combing, eating award-winning clam chowder, shopping in P-Town and just enjoying each others company. I am so blessed to have such a sweet, kind and incredibly funny life partner. This man keeps me laughing day and night--I mean REALLY laughing--the tears streaming down the face tummy tumbling laughter. He also helps me at all of my art events--unloading, loading, cleaning up, driving to and from, etc etc. He's also a pro at the pep talk. Wow, do I love my husband. (Thank you, sweetheart.)
5. I purchased not one, but THREE, five foot by six foot canvases. Oh my, what to paint? It's gonna be colossal. Thanks to Dick Blick art supply for having such a great sale and enabling my desire to work REALLY big.

What does 2011 hold for this artist? I am crossing my fingers that a few things come to fruition, but more than that, I am working really hard to make them happen. Spare time? What's that? But really, I enjoy what I do and it doesn't seem like work at all.

The sun is shining, it's a New Year. I wish all of you a productive year full of dreams that really do come true...

Thank you again for all of your support. Onward to 2011!

Happy Holidays! See you in 2011...

2010-12-23T14:48:00.010-05:00

I hope all of you have a great Holiday surrounded by friends and family enjoying good food, laughter and fun.

2010 has been a wonderful year for me, I hope it has been for you, too. I wish all of you health and happiness now and for 2011.

Some things to remember as 2010 comes to a close: (I love making lists!)

1. tell your loved ones that you treasure them.
2. Have a chocolate milkshake every once in a while.
3. Snuggle your pets regularly.
4. Keep your mind, body and spirit healthy.
5. Wake up with a smile on your face.
6. Read a really good book. (Laura Hillenbrand has a new one out--Unbroken--it's incredible. )
7. Take a walk in the winter air and take in the season's splendor.
8. Set aside a day to do nothing. Recharge.
9. Bake cookies.
10. Have a Star Wars movie marathon.
11. Compliment someone.
12. Don't worry.
13. Replace the milk with egg nog in your favorite pancake recipe.

...and some fun stuff to do:
14. Make your own butter: whip some cream until it forms clumps or curds(keep going with the electric beater until it is past the whipped cream stage--you see the cream gets stiff and forms yellow fat globules--that's BUTTER!! Yay!), drain these butter curds through a cheesecloth or sieve, rinse the clumps until the water runs clear, form in a mound and mix a teaspoon of salt per pound of butter. Save the buttermilk! It's really great in quiche. FUN! (I grew up on a farm--and we had a Jersey cow that gave us the richest, creamiest milk imaginable. The butter made from that ultra-rich cream was heavenly.)

15. Make your own jewelry with beads, suede cord and Sculpey clay. (Sculpey clay makes great beads and bakes in the oven. Add a little gloss to the finished bead with some clear nail polish!)

Until 2011---be well, be happy, be peaceful and have fun!

Thank you for a fantastic 2010. Your support means so much to me,

Helen

Day three of cold...aaachooooooo!

2010-12-19T14:19:00.004-05:00

...and my second day of takin' it easy in the reclining comfy chair, with laptop on my lap. Hey, that's why they call it a laptop. *groan* Go easy on me--I'm sick--pass the Kleenex!

This week I am putting the finishing touches on Phase One of the Big Project. Only a few people know what I am up to, and I appreciate their support. All will be revealed soon, I promise.

The Big Project is taking me on wonderful journeys, and I am only a few months into it. I've talked with some incredible people, been moved to tears, and met an amazing, heroic horse that stole my heart. I can't wait to share these experiences in detail. Believe me, I am chomping at the bit! Pun intended. *grin*

I know this is cryptic, but I would appreciate good wishes and lots of luck. I am very passionate about this project, and I am devoting most of my spare time to its development. Send french fries, too. They help a lot!

Thank you and I wish you happy and healthy Holiday!

Eat lots of clementines, (vitamin C is good for you),
Helen

today's photo is of Skeeter, my studio assistant.

Cooper

2010-12-09T10:53:00.002-05:00

Cooper, 2010. approx 11x14 inches charcoal and pastel on Canson. Casey collection, CT.

The newest pet portrait, done just in time for the Holidays. I LOVE doing pet portraits, e-mail me if you want one--the process is actually super easy because I designed it that way! E-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net to find out more.

I also have gift certificates, perfect for Christmas morning!

It's getting quite chilly here in Connecticut--and I love it. I am definitely a cold weather girl, no doubt. The white candles are flickering in the windows of my little schoolhouse home.

Happy Holidays!

Today...

2010-12-06T06:25:00.009-05:00

When I say I wake up everyday grateful and happy, I really mean it! I may grumble and whine about some things, but hey--I am only human.

This morning I stumbled upon this quote by the artist and poet Linda Saccoccio, and it hit home for me:

The decision to live blissfully is ours.

This quote got me thinking about how my life changed when a serious bout of food poisoning nearly took me out of the picture. I think of the birthday spent in the emergency room. I remember the harrowing ambulance ride, the seizure caused by a dangerous electrolyte imbalance, the gigantic potassium pills I had to swallow, and the IV in my arm that drained bag after bag of fluids into my weakened, bacteria-ravaged body.

And, then I think about today. Today I can take a deep breath and fill my lungs, feel sunlight on my face, smile, and laugh. I can paint horses on huge canvasses. I am grateful. Everyday.

I paint my bliss on to every canvas. I want my gratitude to show.

Have a great day, everyone. And thanks again for all of your compliments, support and encouragement. It means so much to me, I am humbled.

Note: I am a member of STOP: Safe Tables Our Priority. Check out their website at http://www.safetables.org/index.cfm

THANK YOU

2010-12-04T18:15:00.007-05:00

Another Holiday Open Studio has come and gone, and here I am with a big smile on my face.

Thank you all, so much!

I love sharing my art and my process with people. I am honored that you want to know how I create my artwork.

My gratitude knows no bounds.

What next? After dinner and unwinding with Project Runway from Netflix, I'll probably sleep for about a gazillion hours (I am the Queen of the Mega Crash--I feel one coming on...).

Then, it's back to the Big Project. It involves research and a lot of time on the laptop and a lot of time in the studio.

Is the suspense killing ya? All will be revealed soon. Let's just say I have a lot of work ahead of me. Most of Phase One is done (eeeeeeee! YAY!!). My new deadline is January, as a research trip was rescheduled. What the flip am I talking about? *drum roll*

Watch this space!

Thanks again, everyone!

And Thank You to my incredible and talented art mentee, Ian, for all of his help today.

HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIO!

2010-11-07T07:25:00.004-05:00

Holiday Open Studio

Saturday, December 4 from 11am-3pm.

Sound the Bugle Studio
6 Kenyon Road
Hampton, Connecticut, USA

Lots of original art for sale!

Gift certificates for custom equine and pet portraits available

Horse-themed note cards for sale

Jingle the antique sleigh bells! Guaranteed to put you in the Holiday spirit.

See you then!

Helen

UConn interview now available!

2010-10-30T14:55:00.004-04:00

Remember that interview I did this past summer? Well, heeeeeeeeere it is (click on the text to go to the link):

UConn Interview with Helen Scanlon of Sound the Bugle Studio

Many thanks to Tanya Lama for a great interview.
*big smiles*

SECRETARIAT

2010-10-17T08:02:00.014-04:00

I saw the Secretariat movie yesterday, and I really, really enjoyed it.

Now, if you are a racing fan and a horse person, you must go into this movie knowing several things:

1. This is a movie, not a documentary. It is entertainment.
2. There will be inaccuracies. Remember Seabiscuit? In that movie, War Admiral was 18hh; that would make him a freakishly large Thoroughbred! In real life, War Admiral was around 15 hands--kinda on the smallish side. But, I enjoyed the movie immensely.
3. The movie needs to appeal to a wide audience--including those who may not know a lot about horses and racing. Hence, some details are left out. Or, scenes like Lucien Laurin (played by John Malkovich) lighting a fire in the barn (!, well yeah, that's all I'll write about that--no spoilers!) are added for dramatic effect.

BUT--there are many details that stay true to the story of Secretariat. So refreshing!

The racing scenes are INTENSE and beautifully shot. The camera practically gets into the horses' nostrils; you can hear their breath blowing and their hoofbeats pounding in glorious surround sound. There is nothing like the sound of a Thoroughbred going full-out; it's like a living, breathing freight train! The racing scenes made me cry--I felt like I was that jockey, toes in the irons and wind in my hair. Great stuff!

I also loved how the bond between Secretariat and his groom, Eddie Sweat, was depicted. The bond between a groom and a horse can be very strong and is vital to the horse's well-being. I was pleased to see that this special partnership was given the attention it deserves. One scene in particular stands out: (POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT!!!!!)(stop reading now if you don't want to know about any scenes in the movie) (you're welcome!) :-)

when Eddie realizes his charge is feeling better and can run in the upcoming Kentucky Derby, he shouts to the empty, early-morning grandstand at the track: "He ate his breakfast!"
For a groom, a sick horse that snaps back to health is a reason to shout and celebrate.

(end of possible spoiler)

Diane Lane was fabulous as Penny Chenery, and John Malkovich was a treat as Lucien Laurin. The actor who really touched my heart was Margo Martindale as Elizabeth Ham. She was perfect.

Secretariat is a beautiful, moving tribute to the legendary racehorse. It made me feel like a kid again; glued to the TV watching the great red horse run like the wind and leaving his opponents in the dust.

Recommended.

a break!

2010-10-16T09:44:00.012-04:00

Takin' a break to see SECRETARIAT today! Review later....

So excited!!!! I can't wait to see how they filmed his legendary Belmont Stakes. I remember seeing that race when I was just a little kid. It was awesome!

Be sure to read Bill Nack's amazing Secretariat biography, and check out the new book on The Meadow, Secretariat's birthplace.

...here's a list of some of my favorite books on racing:

1. Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand. Beautifully written and meticulously researched. This book is a masterpiece and is in my top-ten of favorite books of all time.
2. Secretariat: The Making of Champion by William Nack. THE book on Secretariat: Nack even describes the day Bold Ruler was bred to Somethingroyal--in amazing detail, I might add.
3. Man o' War: A Legend Like Lightning, by Dorothy Ours. (Isn't that a fantastic title??) Talk about research! WOWIE! Everything you need to know about the original Big Red is in this great book.
4. King of the Wind by Marguerite Henry. I now own a first edition thanks to my awesome husband. *love*
5. Old Friends and More Old Friends by Barbara Livingston. Heartfelt and beautifully written tributes to retired Thoroughbreds accompany Barbara's beautiful award-winning photographs. Must haves for any horse racing fan. Get thee to amazon.com!
6. Down to the Wire: The Lives of the Triple Crown Champions, by Robert Shoop. More than just history, this book details the personalities and quirks of the Triple Crown Winners. Did you know that the fierce competitor Affirmed was a gentle and kind stallion?

I'll have more later...gotta get ready to go out and have some fun!

All rested up and ready to go....

2010-10-11T07:49:00.004-04:00

Here is my promo pic for the Jonathan Trumbull Library Artist of the Month. I am posing with my portrait of the one and only Sound the Bugle. *insert floating hearts here*

Wowza, finally recovered from my whirlwind artsy weekend, so it's time to get revved up again!

BIG PROJECT continues on. Taking a trip to New Hampshire in November, getting phase one in the can by Dec. 1, (that's why there will be no open studio Thanksgiving weekend--I will be working.) The Big Project is about to get a whole lot bigger. EEEK! But I am so excited!

I joined a gym AND I took up yoga again in hopes I can have a little more energy. Painting does not usually require a ton of cardio exercise, and I turned 43 this year. I'm feeling that. Gotta get some freakin' EXERCISE! (and it's Fall, perfect for walking!)
I ordered some purple Puma sneakers, or "Space Boots" as I like to call them, and I am looking forward to my first workout.
There was a time, in my youth, when I could throw hay bales around like they were nothin'. Sure would be nice to be that fit again. I was in my absolute best shape when I was a groom. My biceps could cut diamonds for gawlssakes!

Wish me luck....

Until next time, keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars (name the source of that quote and win a big prize!)

Artist of the Month

2010-10-04T15:16:00.003-04:00

I was asked to be Artist of the Month at the Jonathan Trumbull library in Lebanon, Connecticut. Just finished dropping off seven pieces for the display. So cool!!!

I love, love, LOVE Lebanon. It is a beautiful town with a rich and vibrant history. Take the kids for a field trip sometime and tour the preserved buildings and the museum at the Historical Society. The Wadsworth Stable is a must see for horse lovers: George Washington's horse, Nelson, stayed there! You can walk into his stall and touch his feed trough. Amazing, to say the least.

Anyway---

Awaiting my husband to come home from work. Potato soup and garlic bread for dinner. Cats at my feet. Life is good.

I had back-to-back art events this weekend, and I am so grateful. It's the stuff dreams are made of.

But now, the only thing I have to do is relax! Gotta do it...Perhaps some yoga a little later.

Thanks for a wonderful weekend, everyone. It was great to see all of you!

Next up, Open Studio in December. See you then!

Helen

onward...

2010-09-29T06:20:00.004-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abwu7gBIEGg

watch this! It's UC Ringmaster getting inducted into the CT Morgan Horse Hall of Fame! He's 32 years old...but you'd never know it. What a testament to the longevity of the Morgan horse.

The Big Project update:

I am touched and amazed at how helpful and supportive people can be! Thank you!

The Big Project is taking me on many adventures....How exciting. I also need to thank my friends and family for checking in with me and simply asking "how is the Big Project going?" and then telling me how great it is that I am doing it. This keeps me going. Trust me folks, it's a BIG project. It will take lots of time to complete, and I need that encouragement.

I can't overstate this:

THANK YOU!!

Okay, so when will I stop with the cryptic tone of these blog posts? Well, I have a deadline of Dec. 1, 2010 to get phase one finished. I will know more after that, then I can let the horse out of the barn. (Instead of the cat out of the bag! Haha. Anyway...)

In other news, I scheduled my

HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIO!

It will be Saturday, Dec. 4 from 11am-3pm at Sound the Bugle Studio, 6 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, Connecticut. See you there!!

Autumn is almost here! A quick check in--

2010-09-21T06:23:00.004-04:00

Hello All,

Things are getting really busy, and I love it.

My Big Project (all will be revealed later!) is moving along nicely. I am almost done with the first part, so exciting. Many thanks to those who are helping me and encouraging me! I am keeping a list of the wonderful individuals who are so selflessly generous with their time and knowledge, and believe me, you will all get a big, formal thank you when the time comes. *big smiles*

Looks like I won't have much free time from now until December. I am knee deep in paint and projects! It's a wonderful life.

Thank you for supporting this happy artist.

Send french fries! I'll be under a mountain of canvas. :-)

UC High Hopes, aka "Shoe"

2010-09-09T19:58:00.001-04:00

UC High Hopes, aka "Shoe", 16" x 20", acrylic and copper leaf on canvas, 2010.

Shoe is a wonder horse. A UConn bred Morgan, he broke both hind legs in a paddock accident and he not only healed completely, but he went on to excel in dressage. He is my hero!

His portrait is a prize for winning High Point Champion with his rider, Megan Brauch. Congrats, you guys!

Why I love acrylic paint

2010-08-15T08:33:00.003-04:00

Dear Acrylic Paint,

Don't freak out or anything, but these past few months re-discovering you has been really great. Dare I say magical?

I think I am falling in love with you again.

Why do I love you?

I work fast, and you dry quickly.

You are patient when I am not.

You are pretty.

You are versatile.

You don't choke me with fumes.

You can be applied super thick to create (blissful sigh) gorgeous texture, or you can be watered down to look like a (blissful sigh) watercolor.

You are easy to control. Ahem. That's kinda exciting. *wink*

You last forever. (I still have my college painting smock shirt rag thing that has you on it. So many times through the wash and you won't budge). Hence, I know you will always be there for me.

I love you, it's that simple. You are the paint for me.

True love always,

Helen

Back to the Barn

2010-08-09T18:36:00.016-04:00

Back to the Barn, 2010. 36" x 40" acrylic on gallery wrap canvas. (top: whole painting, bottom: detail of head)

This painting is a little bit different for me: this was my first paint horse, my first blue eyed horse AND the first time I decided to try a glowing outline to make the horse pop off the canvas.

I love expressionism and creating texture and going BAM POW with color. I also can see why Jackson Pollack liked to drip paint. Boy, it's FUN. But, I digress...

I do not copy, trace or project photos, I use my imagination and memory to conjure an image, and I freehand draw right on the canvas. As I draw, I step back and check my perspective and proportions. Then, I paint. I use all of my senses when I paint. I do not use strict realism, instead, I let my subject "tell" me what it wants as I go. Sound weird? It's hard to explain, but this horse kinda told me he wanted a green glowing outline with lots of cobalt blue. And for the spots on his coat--my brush just went to random places and formed the patterns as I saw fit. Even weirder--(but a really kinda cool experience!)---every time I look at this painting, I can hear this horse's hooves clip clop on the ground in a relaxed, slow, post-trail ride rhythm as he walks.

Creating art, for me, is a celebration of the senses. And I love it!

Back to the Barn is a "request" painting; meaning, I asked some of my collectors, friends and supporters what they would like to see me paint. One longtime collector and friend suggested I do a bay/white paint horse with a black and white mane, on an emerald green background. Niiiiiice. She speaks my language!

Back to the Barn is the final result. I added some cobalt and bright green to complement the emerald. I also added that bright glowy green to make the horse jump out a bit. This was SO much fun to do, and I hope it shows! I need to get a better photo of this, however. I just got a new camera and I am still learning it. The whites should be pure white with no blue undertones, and the muzzle is nice warm pink. The green also glows like a firefly!
(click on the painting to see a close-up, maybe you can see some of the cool drips and textures that were formed as the painting progressed) ("back to the barn" is also scribbled into the cobalt blue right under his lead rope).

This happy horse is headed back to the barn after a nice, long trail ride. He is devotedly following his rider after giving her a relaxing, magical ride through a pine forest, (or maybe they galloped across an open field) (or maybe they went through a cool stream before heading home)...The lead rope is slack and shows the trust that is forged between horse and rider.

The horse will follow his rider, anywhere. He will safely carry her home, every time.

Back to the Barn is for sale, e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net to inquire.

In other studio news for 2010:

WOWIE! Many thanks to Tanya Lama from the University of Connecticut for conducting a great in-home interview with me. What fun! I love blabbing non-stop about art and horses! Anyway, Tanya's interview will be featured on UConn's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website; I will be a featured alumna. How freaking cool is it to be recognized by one's alma mater? Well, it's REALLY freaking cool. I'll put the link up when it is featured.

Saturday, Sept 11: Look for my vendor tent at the Lebanon Farmers' Market! I haven't been there since June, I miss it! The market is located on the GORGEOUS Lebanon Green in beautiful, historic Lebanon, Connecticut, 9am-12noon.

Saturday, Oct. 2: I return to the Lebanon Farmers' Market for Artisan Day, 9am-12noon.

Sunday, Oct. 3: no rest for this artist! I will have a vendor booth at the Willimantic Food Co-op's Country Fair, 91 Valley St., Willimantic, Connecticut. That event will be 11am-5pm.

Then watch for a Fall Open Studio announcement!

(and, get your Holiday Commissions in early!!! e-mail me today!)

Whew!

Thanks to everyone for your support. You make me smile. :-)

Lusitano Grey

2010-08-01T18:10:00.004-04:00

Lusitano Grey, 24" x 36", acrylic on gallery wrap canvas. (top: entire image, bottom: detail of head)
For sale, e-mail me to inquire. soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net

Fresh off the easel!

It finally cooled down so I could finish this painting. THANK YOU Mother Nature! Geez, this summer has been BRUTAL! My studio gets like an oven.
It was in the 70s and breezy today, and I felt great. I haven't been able to paint in so long!

I love Lusitano horses, and I love a dark grey mane against a white/steel grey dappled coat. So, I decided to paint a grey Lusitano!
I did a very similar pose like this on a smaller scale, a pastel/charcoal piece called Movement. I sold Movement last year, so I thought I would bring the pose back for a large painting since I enjoyed it so much.
This stallion was caught in the middle of a gallop, his mane and forelock whipping in the wind.

And congrats to my friend Nikki who recently got her very own Lusitano stallion! He's an incredible gold color, just breathtaking. So happy they found each other.

Congrats also go out to my incredible art mentee, Ian, for getting a Champion ribbon and Reserve Champion ribbon with his lovely mare, Fiona.

Happy August!

WEBSITE UPDATED!!!

2010-07-12T06:29:00.003-04:00

YAY!
Check it out, MANY new pieces for sale:

www.soundthebuglestudio.com

You may not know this, so...

2010-07-08T07:36:00.004-04:00

I also offer drawing demos and horse art history lectures within a certain distance of my studio in Hampton, Connecticut. The demo with lecture is $50/hour plus mileage (fees vary). Contact me if you would like me to do a presentation for your group: soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net

I love speaking with student groups, art and 4-H clubs, etc. I bring a sketch pad and I take requests! I also discuss daVinci, Stubbs, and other famous equine artists and show examples of their work. I love art history, and I love sharing it with others.

(above image is daVinci's horse in Milan, Italy)

Happy Birthday to me, part two

2010-07-05T15:37:00.003-04:00

Sound the Bugle (aka, Rooster, Roo), 24" x 36", acrylic and horsehair on deep cradled gessoboard.

There is a strand of Roo's actual hair in this piece. It's in his forelock...look closely...maybe you can see it? (click to make the pic bigger)

This piece will be in my private collection. Contact me if you would like to commission a portrait painting of your best horse friend--complete with a single strand of their tail or mane hair--just ask.

e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net

Happy Birthday to me! featuring a work in progress...

2010-07-05T07:02:00.010-04:00

Today's my b-day!

I have the whole day to paint and hang out with the kitties!

Above is a work-in-progress of the my studio namesake, Sound the Bugle. No reference photos were used for this portrait's composition-- just a peek at one photo to study the coloration on his face. I am relying on my memories of him and his wonderful and kind face.

This is an emotional portrait for me. Sound the Bugle, (barn name, Rooster) touched my heart very deeply. He was a groom's dream charge; never naughty, never in a bad mood. Always sweet and OH SO HAPPY! to see me. He had wonderfully perky ears and beautiful wide-open eyes. His face always told a tale of pure equine joy.

I wanted him to have a classic three-quarter profile portrait worthy of a Thoroughbred with a pedigree full of Champions. (Man o War, Whirlaway, Round Table).

Here's to you, Roo!

I still miss you, Old Friend.

Stay tuned for the final portrait.

Sound the Bugle Studio at Lebanon Farmers' Market!

2010-06-18T15:03:00.003-04:00

I will be selling art and notecards at the Lebanon Farmers' Market, from 9am-12noon, Saturday, June 26, 2010.

The market is at the Lebanon Town Green, in beautiful, historic Lebanon, Connecticut.

Come on by and say HI!

New note card designs will be featured...and I will bring some paintings and framed drawings as well.

Summer is almost here!

(image is 2009's "Here Comes That Farrier Again" charcoal and pastel.)

Hall Of Fame! Congrats, UC Ringmaster!

2010-06-12T09:19:00.003-04:00

UC Ringmaster was inducted into the Connecticut Morgan Horse Hall of Fame last night the BigE, Springfield, MA.

Congrats, handsome!

UC Ringmaster is one of the University of Connecticut's Morgan stallions. Now pensioned at the age of 32, (wow!), Ringmaster is a TWO TIME World Champion. He sired many beautiful, talented and award-winning get.

I just love this charming and talkative guy. Such a deserved honor for such a charismatic gentleman.

(above is my 2007 portrait of him, it is usually found displayed in the UConn horsebarn arena, but was brought to the Big E for the ceremony, so cool!)

Go here to see pics of the induction ceremony:

http://www.howardschatzberg.com/

copy and paste in your browser--then click on CT Morgan Horse Show, then Hall of Fame. Yes, that stallion is over 30 years old. He looks amazing! And, he's having the time of his life.

Dark Steed Triptych

2010-06-03T17:12:00.003-04:00

Dark Steed Triptych, acrylic paint on 3 10" x 20" gallery wrap canvas panels.

I had lots of fun with this one.

Picture a brave, black horse carrying his rider safely home...

This piece is for sale, please e-mail me for details

soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net

Gold Rush

2010-05-16T14:14:00.012-04:00

"Gold Rush" 2010. 22" x 28", Acrylic on gallery wrap canvas, featuring iridescent gold paint in textured layers. (bottom image is detail) (click on each image to get more detail and texture)

A brilliantly golden coated Arabian flares his nostrils and drinks in the air...His large eye is rimmed with white, and his nostril glows red. His head and neck are featured against a cerulean blue sky.

A golden horse with a flaxen mane always takes my breath away. It is the horse of childhood dreams-- what little girl didn't want a golden pony?

This painting features thickly layered glimmering gold paint--it GLOWS when it hits the light just so. I turn into a horse crazy 8 year old when I paint like this....Fun memories.

This piece is for sale, contact me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net if you would like to add it to your collection.

Buttercup

2010-05-08T20:44:00.003-04:00

Buttercup, commissioned portrait, 8" x 10", charcoal. Sylvester collection, Maine.

Pet portraits are so much fun!!!

Go hear to learn more: http://www.helenscanlonpetportraits.blogspot.com/

The freedom of freehand

2010-05-06T06:24:00.003-04:00

Whenever I have an open studio, I get asked a lot about my process. Do I use photographs? How do I transfer images to the paper/canvas/board? How do I know when a work is done? etc. etc.

I love getting asked about my process!

I am a freehand artist, and that means I do not use reference photographs. I do not copy, trace or transfer photos on to the paper/board or canvas. I work directly on the surface using a soft vine charcoal stick for easy erasing. I use memory and imagination to come up with a subject and composition. Basically--I stand in front of the blank canvas and wait for the idea to come. Then, I sketch what I envision.

Sometimes, I will have a sketch from a live study to work from.

If I need a reminder on proper leg placement, gaits or the parts of a bridle, I will refer to a tack or gait diagram. Occasionally, I will study a video. (The Olympic dressage DVDs are wonderful!) Or better yet, I will get myself to a live study session. (note to self: this is long overdue! Get your sketch pad out!)

I work quickly, and I enjoy showing texture and expression in line and color. I like to show how much fun I have when I draw or paint.

I know when a work is done when I step back from it, study it and it no longer tells me to work on it. It's very much a gut feeling.

And it's so much fun working this way!

And, I rediscovered an old love: Acrylic paint on canvas. Ask me if I am having fun!

YES! :-)

See you in the studio!

(above image is the outline and finished drawing of "Concentration")

Thank you!

2010-05-04T06:14:00.004-04:00

Another wonderful Open Studio and Sale...

Thank you to everyone who came out, saw the art and added new pieces to their collections! Yippeee! I love it when my artwork goes to great homes.

It was hot and humid both days--Spring didn't stay long! Hello, Summer?!

And many thanks to budding equine artist and Lyman High School Senior, Ian, for helping me and painting with me. Watch this space for his Artist Debut announcement....He's really coming along with his art! Horses are not easy to draw, and he studies them diligently and works very hard--and it shows. He has mastered hooves. Wow. They are one of the hardest parts of a horse to get right. Color me impressed. It's so great to have such a hardworking and dedicated mentee! Well done, Ian!

I honored, humbled and happy. Thank you all, again.

(above: some of my BIG paintings get center stage on the lawn!)

Bay With D-Ring

2010-04-24T14:11:00.005-04:00

"Bay with D-Ring" 30" x 40" acrylic on deep cradled gesso board. 2010.

Another new piece all set to make its debut at the May 1 and 2nd Open Studio.

Hope to see you then...

May 1 and 2, 2010
Open Studio 11am-4pm
Sound the Bugle Studio
6 Kenyon Rd.
Hampton, Connecticut

Grey in Blue and Green

2010-04-07T18:07:00.004-04:00

Grey in Blue and Green, 2010. 36" x 48", Acrylic on deep cradled gessoboard. (bottom image is a close up).

This dapple grey horse trotted straight out of my imagination and onto the board. I enjoy using bold colors and strong lines when I paint. The acrylic paint needs several coats to create the saturated color, and I really get to know my horse muse with each brush stroke.

This new horse is enjoying a bit of a spontaneous piaffe.

If you would like to add this piece to your collection, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio@charter.net

Please come to the Open Studio May 1 and 2nd to see this new piece up close!
Sound the Bugle Studio is located at 6 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, Connecticut and the open studio hours are 11am-4pm. See you on May 1 and 2nd!

Red on Red

2010-04-03T09:52:00.004-04:00

Red on Red, 2010. 24" x 19" acrylic on gallery wrap canvas.

This new painting was inspired by my horse friend, Pikasso CA. Pikasso is an Arabian/Warmblood bred by Crossen Arabians of Coventry, CT. He is a beautiful dressage athlete (with the ribbons and awards to prove it!). He has a gorgeous, glowing, golden red chestnut coat and a dramatic white blaze--just a vision! (he has 4 white socks, too! Lotsa chrome and flash, and the talent to go with it).

The painting was inspired by a live-study sketch I did of him last year.

It is available for sale, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net.

You can see this piece in person at my May 1 and 2 Open Studio (see previous blog post for more info).

Now, off to paint some more!

Spring Open Studio has been scheduled!

2010-03-26T06:32:00.005-04:00

Saturday, May 1 (Derby Day!) and Sunday May 2 from 11am-4ish-pm at Sound the Bugle Studio, 6 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, Connecticut.

New art for sale!

Watch me paint!

Also, my friend Marie will be selling her AMAZING hand-made soaps.

Come on by, would love to see you.

(Hint: Mother's Day AND Father's Day are coming up--give the gift of art!)(I also have gift certificates)

Legend VI, on the way!

2010-03-15T18:03:00.007-04:00

Received a pre-order this weekend...

"PLEASE do the Darley Arabian," pleaded my faithful customer. "He needs to go on my wall next to your Godolphin Arabian."

OOH! Twist my arm! *wink*

Anyway, the Darley Arabian was an astoundingly beautiful bay horse with socks and blaze. Be still my heart... I just go all to mush for a bright bay with socks and a blaze...

Stay tuned! Legend VI: The Darley Arabian will make his appearance soon.

above image: The Darley Arabian as painted by John Wootton.

...continue to keep Courtney King-Dye in your prayers...

2010-03-15T06:43:00.005-04:00

here she is riding her late, great Olympic mount, Mythilus:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_mQXiTFQ9g

On March 5, Dressage Olympian Courtney King-Dye was working a young horse when the horse slipped. Courtney suffered severe head trauma as a result of the accident, and she is still in the UCU in a coma.

Courtney is poetry in the saddle. Perfect position, beautiful, quiet hands, and supreme balance. Whatever your faith may be, keep her in your prayers.

The question many wanted to know was: was she wearing a helmet? Unfortunately, she was not. Accidents happen no matter your discipline, no matter your skill level. Since Courtney's horrible injury, many in the dressage world gathered in solidarity to show off their spiffy helmets when mounted; to show their support and love of this wonderful rider and teammate.

Dressage Olympian, Robert Dover, posts frequent Courtney updates on his website: www.doversworld.com

Feel free to join Robert's powerful prayer circle by adding a comment on his page: I believe in a miracle for Courtney!

Stay strong, Courtney! We are looking forward to giving you a standing ovation when you return to the arena...

Z E N Y A T T A ! ! ! !

2010-03-14T14:11:00.006-04:00

15 for 15.

Undefeated.

Comes up from dead last, again. Finds a gap, powers through and blows their doors off. Finishes with ears pricked, pleased as punch.

Her trainer, John Shirreffs, says the 17hh Zenyatta is sweet as pie in her stall and is a perfect lady to handle. But, when that saddle goes on--it's dance, dance, dance and get outta my way! What a competitive powerhouse she is out on the racetrack. She just muscles her way through the field to win, win, win!

This mare is a masterpiece:

NOW it's done!

2010-03-07T07:09:00.003-05:00

The Gentleman, 2010. 19" x 19", charocal and pastel on cream Canson Mi-Teintes.

I worked on this piece just a tad more---I wasn't happy with his ears the first time around. Ears are sometimes really hard to get right---even after drawing them for so many years! Horses use their ears for their expression, and getting their position correct is vital. So, I went back, changed the ears, made his gentle eye bigger and softer, and added a smidge of color. Now, he's done.

The Gentleman's muse was a big, proud baroque stallion. He's a perfect gentleman, passing his nobility, beauty, talent and sweet personality to his progeny. And I think he's a big cutie. *smile*

To add this new drawing to your collection, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net

Goodbye, Blue Hors Matine...

2010-02-01T16:33:00.004-05:00

Shocking, sad news. The beautiful and talented Blue Hors Matine broke her leg while in her turnout, and was humanely euthanized on Jan. 25.

Goodbye sweet, dancing mare. You showed us perfection and class. And wow, could you rock out to Lady Marmalade!

Always loved... You will be missed.

My condolences to all who knew and loved this amazing and magnificent horse.

Remember...

2010-01-30T07:55:00.003-05:00

Three years ago this weekend...

We will never forget Barbaro.

(image is a detail from my 2006 painting, "Fiery Bay.")

Pencil sketches...

2009-12-29T07:03:00.004-05:00

...are fun!

This little Arabian pranced out my mind and on to the paper as I sat in my favorite comfy chair watching a great movie, with a belly full of yummy Christmas dinner leftovers. The happy look on this horse's face reflects my mood at the time. :-)

Did I mention what Santa brought me this year? (drum roll):

A NEW EASEL !!!

Since my painting studio is not insulated yet, and well, it's really cold out--I have to wait until Spring to use it...

Many thanks to Santa, also known as my wonderful husband, Steve, for my easel. It is beautiful! And it can hold a HUGE canvas or board. *happy dance*

There will be much painting when the daffodils start poking their little heads through the dirt...

Felic and Jimmy

2009-12-26T13:49:00.009-05:00

Felic and Jimmy, 11"x14", commissioned portrait, 2009. Watercolor pencils (Caran D'ache) and watercolor paints (Winsor and Newton) and ink on Arches hot-press paper.

This double portrait features two longtime horse buddies who passed away within a week of each other in October of 2009. Felic, (right), left first, and then his old friend Jimmy shortly followed him to the big green pastures in the sky...

When I paint equine and pet portraits, I ask for detailed personality descriptions. I do this so that I may completely immerse myself in the essence of the animal I am painting or drawing. It's an emotional process for me: I read the words the owner writes, and I sometimes feel tears well up. It's inevitable--love just pours off the pages.
Felic and Jimmy were no exception. These equine souls were so loved by their owner. She really knew them and her many years of care and devotion to these boys are a true testament of the bond between horse and rider. Personality descriptions help me feel a little of that bond; it gives me access to their world. For me, creating a portrait is much more than just capturing an image. It is being able to touch, smell, and hear the horse I am painting.
This is why I do not copy photos; I study them.
Images and words help me form an orginal artistic interpretation of a beloved equine soul.

Thank you, Betsy, for letting me know your special boys.

Happy Holidays

2009-12-21T09:40:00.003-05:00

Dear Friends of Sound the Bugle Studio,

Have a very happy and healthy Holiday! See you in 2010!
Today's image is my cat Ghee hangin' out in the studio. :-)
wishing you smiles and sunbeams for the New Year,
Helen

Legend IV: Whirlaway

2009-12-12T20:43:00.006-05:00

Legend IV: Whirlaway. 19x24 inches, 2009, charcoal, conte crayon and Rembrandt pastel on pearl Canson Mi-Teintes. SOLD

Whirlaway, the 1941 Triple Crown winner, was a “tough baby” according to Jimmy Jones, son of trainer, Ben Jones. Whirlaway had a way about him that could have frustrated a lesser trainer, but Ben Jones knew exactly what to do with this wayward colt. A unique one-eyed blinker, fashioned by Jones, helped keep the colt from veering out and drifting off the rail.

Whirlaway was tough to train, but he was pure poetry on the racetrack. He won the hearts of fans as they cheered him home, his long, red tail flowing out behind him. “Mr. Longtail,” became a legend the day he won the Belmont stakes, becoming the fifth Triple Crown winner.

Jimmy Jones said even though the colt was a “tough baby,” jockey Eddie Arcaro “had his number.” Jockey and colt were a sight to behold, a lightning bolt of horse and man; working perfectly in sync…

"...not even a cyclone could head us off. I don't think I ever passed as many horses in such a hurry. I might as well have been shot from a gun. What a horse! What a horse!" --Eddie Arcaro

"He carries in his armament the deadliest weapon a thoroughbred can have - an annihilating burst of speed which he can apparently turn on at any stage of a race."

--Blood Horse Magazine

Winning the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and the Belmont is a monumental feat, and only the most exceptional horses have ever accomplished this ultimate test of heart, speed and talent. The last Triple Crown winner was way back in 1978, when Affirmed snagged it by a nose over his rival, Alydar.

Whirlaway was an enormously talented “tough baby.”

I drew him racing fit and built for speed, his trademark long tail nearly brushing the ground; with a mischievous look in his eye. Always looking around, that one…

'tis the season

2009-12-10T06:31:00.006-05:00

it's time for some Studio Updates and Holiday Wishes!

2009 is winding down...and, WOW, what a year.

The studio really picked up some speed this year: great commissions, fantastic open studios, a gallery show...I am really excited for 2010.

Currently on the drawing table:
--a two-horse portrait commission
--a logo design in progress
--Man o' War's portrait--the final panel of the Legendary Sires triptych.

My Legend IV: Whirlaway drawing goes to its new home this Saturday. I'll miss ol' Whirly, but I know he will be going to someone who will absolutely cherish him. :-)

I am so grateful for everyone's support. Drawing and painting one of the most majestic creatures to ever to put a hoof on the planet is a great honor. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Also, one of my greatest joys is capturing a beloved pet with my pencil and paintbrush. Go here for more details:

Pet Portraits by Helen Scanlon

I offer a unique service with my custom horse and pet portraits: if you do not have great quality photos (or no photos at all) of the animal, I can render a portrait with descriptions for an additonal fee. All portraits are hand-rendered and given your seal of approval before they are called done.

Contact me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.com if you want to know more.

(pssssst..I also offer gift certificates... they are a big hit on Christmas morning!)

Have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday, everyone!

Helen

A book review

2009-12-08T06:27:00.014-05:00

Award-winning equine photographer Barbara Livingston has a new book, and it's, well, AMAZING. Horses: In Living Color showcases some magically beautiful horses in all their glory. Have you ever seen a brindle horse? Or how about a horse with a badger face? Or, the knabstrupper--all polka dotted like something out of a dream?

Gossamer palominos, cremellos, whites...Dapples that resemble snowflakes against a stormy sky...Paint horses with spots and maps and markings that resemble paint dribbles...Blue eyes, and eyes that look like they were lined with kohl...Striped legs and hooves...Unique spot patterns, buckskins, feral horses with patterns formed by nature itself...

It's all here! This book is a visual delight for horse lovers and fans of photography. Barbara Livingston is the real deal--you can tell from her wonderfully insightful and beautifully composed photographs just how much she loves and knows her subject. Horses can be difficult to photograph; capturing them with their ears up can be a challenge. Be sure to snap that one elusive shot for it may never come again! Barbara is a true artist with her camera: she captures her equines in a moment in time as she expertly uses the lens to show the ancient wisdom behind their eyes. A soul appears when she clicks the shutter.

I love this book--as I love all of Barbara's books (Old Friends, More Old Friends, Four Seasons of Racing, Saratoga). They inspire and motivate this equine artist time and time again. When I look at her photographs, I can feel the hot horse breath on my face...

Thank you for yet another masterpiece, Barbara!

THANK YOU!

2009-12-02T13:02:00.002-05:00

Many thanks to all who came out to my Holiday Open Studio. Lots of first-time visitors--so great!

Thanks again...you make this artist very, very happy. Your support means so much to me.

Have a very Happy Holiday!

Helen

Holiday Open Studio

2009-11-10T10:24:00.007-05:00

My Holiday Open Studio will be Sat. November 28 and Sunday November 29, 2009 from 11am-4pm. Sound the Bugle Studio is located on 6 Kenyon Rd., in Hampton, Connecticut.

Original art, notecards and gift certificates will be available. Note cards make great stocking stuffers, and there is nothing more heartfelt than a gift certificate for a custom horse or pet portrait for the animal lover on your Holiday gift list.

There will also be local Hampton artists displaying their work at the Hampton Community Center on Main Street. Make sure you stop in and see them after your visit to Sound the Bugle Studio.

Hampton is so beautiful and wonderfully festive this time of year. It is a town rich in history, and it possesses that wonderful old-time New England charm. Historic houses line Main Street, and each one has beautiful white Holiday candles adorning their frost laced windows. Such a welcome sight when there is a chill in the air and snowflakes dotting the sky!

I am so happy I chose to call this town home nearly eight years ago.

find out more about Hampton here:

http://www.hamptonct.org/

Hope to see you in Hampton for the Holiday Open Studio. Feel free to jingle the antique sleigh bells in the studio when you visit--there is no other sound like it. It will be sure to put you in the Holiday spirit!

see you soon!

Helen

Pictured above are two new pieces: top, "The Gentleman," 18" x 18" charcoal on cream Canson Mi-Teintes, and bottom: "Catch Me," 18" x20", charcoal, conte and Rembrandt pastel on violet Canson Mi-Teintes. Both will be available for sale, unframed, at the Open Studio.

Zenyatta makes history

2009-11-08T08:35:00.005-05:00

Zenyatta was the first filly or mare to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. One for the history books!

And, she's UNDEFEATED. Won all fourteen of her races. You read that right...

Here's the race, and post race. Prepare to be awestruck:

Jockey Mike Smith said she hadn't used up all her gears. So amazing! She came up from dead last, and swept it--ears up, with energy to spare. This is a mare of legends.

She loves to run. Check out her "hurry up I wanna GO!" dance moves in the paddock and when she steps onto the track:

Horse of the Year? Close call between her and Rachel Alexandra.

It's the Year of the Filly!

Fair Play

2009-10-26T13:29:00.008-04:00

Fair Play, sire of Man o' War. Second panel of watercolor triptych.

12" x 16" , watercolor and ink on Arches hot press watercolor paper.
(this is a little too big for my scanner, but this is about 90% of it)

Fair Play was a talented racehorse in his own right--and then he sired the most famous racehorse of all: Man o' War.

Hastings' agressiveness and Fair Play's dominance was translated into pure, brilliant speed and competitiveness in Man o' War.

Hastings

2009-10-16T14:06:00.004-04:00

here is the vicious-tempered, hot-blooded stallion, Hastings. He is the grandsire of Man o' War.

This was completed in watercolor and ink, and is painting one of a triptych. It is on Arches hot-press watercolor paper.

I love containing watercolor with a bold ink line, and I absolutely love how watercolors still maintain a mind of their own, even when attempts are made to control it. Much like Hastings.

This piece is approx 12x16 inches, too big for my scanner! But I was able to capture most of it.

Next up, Fair Play...

Legendary Sires Triptych in progress: First step: create preliminary sketches

2009-09-29T17:25:00.014-04:00

Above: Prelim sketch of the strong and extremely vicious tempered Hastings, sire of Fair Play.
Above: Pre-lim sketch of Fair Play, the noble and beautiful sire of Man o' War.
Above; pre-lim sketch of the mighty Man o' War.

These are working sketches for a watercolor/ink triptych of the the Man o' War sire line. I studied these horses' photos and histories to get a feel for who they were. I then sketched what I felt.

Hastings, the stallion in the first working sketch, was a dangerous and aggressive horse that would lunge for any man given the chance. The only photo I could find of him was not a flattering one; he had his ears laced back with an angry expression. Why yes, he was a handful! Behold this nugget from pedigreequery.com:

Notorious for his bad temper, stablehands dare not approach him on the rare occasion that they needed to catch him (they built special chutes from his stall to his pasture and to the breeding shed in order to handle him safely) without literally carrying a big stick for defense purposes. (credit: pedigreequery.com)

EEEK! I decided to give Hastings an ears-up "look of eagles," but I also made sure I gave him a sneer and a "stand back" look to his eye. His nostril is also tensed and flared. He is not inviting you into his personal space!

Fair Play was a stallion of great beauty and refinement. He was a talented race horse in his own right, but then he sired Man o' War. And we all know what Man o' War went on to be...
Many say Man o' War was the greatest race horse that ever lived, and I can't say that I can argue with that. No small feat! Man o' War was simply awesome.

I wanted to give Fair Play an air of royalty, and I gave him a head-held-high with a faraway look in his eye. He is focused on the future...

Man o' War will be depicted in a full-body pose, rippling with muscle, standing in front of a Glen Riddle barn. (Glen Riddle was the name of the farm in Maryland that belonged to Man o' War's owner, Samuel Riddle.)

This triple portrait will be my homage to this great and historically significant sire line.

Watch here for updates.

Also on the table, Legend IV, inspired by the incredible and temperamental Whirlaway.

The Eyes Have It--A lesson on the windows into a horse's soul

2009-09-26T11:48:00.019-04:00

The eyes of horse are extremely expressive; capable of showing excitement, fear, contentment, concentration, delight, you name it. I find such joy in drawing and painting the eyes of my horses---they can reveal so much about the horse's character. Above is the close up of a young and flighty thoroughbred.
The above image is a close up of my painting Fiery Bay. This horse's eye is showing excitement with a tinge of fear. His eye whites are blazing, he is very alert of his surroundings, and his brow muscles are slighty furrowed.
The paint horse's eye is showing a calm curiousity as she turns her neck slightly to get a better look at something. (Perhaps her owner with a carrot?)The brow muscle is relaxed, and the white is showing because she is moving her eye in its socket to get a better look. She may also have a bit of eye white that shows all the time, and this eye position accentuates that characteristic.
This mare shows a kind, sweet and trusting eye. Her brow is relaxed as she calmly regards her surroundings. The whites of her eyes are not showing, and her lids are open and friendly.
This spirited Arab, (a close up of my rendering of the Godolphin Arabian), shows a majestic, confident and spirited expression with a white-rimmed eye that is focused squarely on YOU. The white is prominent, and the brow muscle and eyelid are lifted so that the eye is wide open to completely take in his surroundings. This horse is energetic and fiery.
This dressage horse has a furrowed and somewhat tensed brow that is deep in concentration as he listens to the rider's leg, hand and seat aids. He is clearly focused on the tasks his rider is asking him to do. This shows a horse in complete "listening mode."
This depiction of Man O' War shows an eye without fear that is brimming with dominance. Stay on the other side of the fence, please! This eye shows a horse that is wary and on high alert. His eye follows you, but his head does not. He does not feel like he has to expend that much energy to tell you to stand back from his space. He does it only with his eye. The message is quite clear!

The horse has muscles all around the eye in order for the horse to show different moods and states of being. Combine the eye with some ear expression, and you can create a plethora of moody equines!

There are many ways to show expression in a horse's eye. Show the whites of the eye and you can automatically create a horse that is curious or on alert. When the eye is showing white, it is out of its "comfort zone." A calm, contented eye usually does not show white, but instead it is large and liquid, without a tensed brow muscle. However, due to breed characteristics or other factors, a horse's eye may show white in a restful state. In this case, the muscles around the eye play a big role in depicting moods with the eye. The "brow" muscle can be tense or relaxed, and lids can be wide open or partially closed to show alertness, contentment or sleepiness. :-) (think half closed lids, zzzzzzzz...)

Practice some eyes and see how many horse moods you can capture! It's fun!
(and study some real horses up close if you can...)

Happy drawing!

Open Studio--a super fun time! Thank you, all!

2009-09-21T07:25:00.005-04:00

WOW!!!

My Sept. 19 and 20 Open Studio was the best one yet!

Thank you so much to everyone who came out! I had a lot of fun talking with all of you. Thank you for your support, it means so much to me. Hugs all around!

I am so grateful that my art will be going to good homes. This brings a big smile to this artist's face. :-)

Hope to see you in November!

OPEN STUDIO! Sept. 19 and 20, 2009

2009-09-12T11:44:00.005-04:00

Hooray, Fall is almost here, and now it's time for OPEN STUDIOS!

Make sure you stop by Sound the Bugle Studio's first Fall Open Studio on Saturday, Sept. 19 and Sunday, Sept. 20 from 10am-5pm. Sound the Bugle Studio is located at 6 Kenyon Rd. in the beautiful town of Hampton, Connecticut.

LOTS of new art to see, all for sale....

(psssssssssst...the Holidays will be here before you know it...and I have GIFT CERTIFICATES available for custom horse and pet portraits...)

Kenyon Rd is easy to get to from Connecticut's route 6 and route 44. Look for a white cape right on the corner of rt. 97 and Kenyon Rd in Hampton. Rt 97 is Hampton's Main Street.

Check for those RED Open Studio signs!

see you then!

Helen

Awww, shucks

2009-09-09T07:11:00.004-04:00

My buddy Cheryl gave me an "Honest Scrap" award because she likes my studio blog.
Thanks, buddy!
An "Honest Scrap" award is basically a blog chain letter or the blog version of a MySpace “survey.” So, who am I to miss out on the fun??

check out her AWESOME blog here: Really, go here NOW:

http://neanomaly.blogspot.com/

and then, check out the other blogs she frequents. They are wonderful! I recommend them, too.

I aslo recommend this blog by my wonderful artist friend, Brandy Gale: (TAG! You're it!)
http://singlemaltcove.blogspot.com/

Now I have to list ten things about myself. Okay, here goes:

1. I love to cook.
2. I like to put weird colors in my hair.
3. I was married on Halloween.
4. Michael Palin of Monty Python has one of my paintings.
5. I have an Open Studio on Sept. 19 and 20th from 10am-5pm at my home studio at 6 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. YOU SHOULD GO! :-)
6. I need at least ten hours of sleep a night to feel my best.
7. Fall is my favorite season.
8. I can not resist fresh, thin crust pizza.
9. I believe in karma.
10. I can recite Star Wars line for line.

Brandy, feel free to take the torch....

My Horse, My Heart

2009-07-19T17:24:00.009-04:00

My Horse, My Heart, 2009. 30" x 30", Acrylic paint and charcoal on deep cradled Ampersand Gessobord.
I create from my memory and imagination, so the composition of a painting or drawing is mulled over in my mind for days (or weeks!) before I pick up the charcoal.

I had been thinking about doing this horse's pose for quite a while before I actually attempted it. I played this composition and pose out in my mind so many times that when it came time to actually sketch it out on the gesso board, the lines flew from the charcoal and I had my composition realized in a few minutes. Wheeee! Charcoal was flyin' everywhere! I was quite eager to get this out of my head and onto the board.

I do not copy or trace reference photos or utilize computer programs to create a piece--it's all in my head--sometimes I have to hurry up and get the image out of my brain before it gallops away since I don't have a back-up copy...eeek!

The horse's bay coat has hints of acra violet, and the twilight sky behind the horse has deep blues, purple and magenta. (Just a few of my favorite colors!)

I love charcoal and I choose to give it center stage alongside the paint. Why cover it up, I ask? It creates such wonderful line and texture...and add a little water to it and it turns a midnight black; powerful and very dark. Charcoal was my first love when I was learning to draw, and we still have a partnership, I am happy to say.

If you would like to add this to your collection, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net.

War Horse

2009-07-18T12:16:00.003-04:00

War Horse is a London based play that features some of the most amazing puppet art I have ever seen. Check it out:

Amazing, yes?

And the puppeteers even sound like a horse, as evidenced by this video:

Truly fantastic!!! Such artistry. I am in awe.

lest you forget that I also do pet portraits...

2009-07-15T07:23:00.005-04:00

Here's the latest!

This wonderful mastiff/shepherd mix is Lytton. His portrait is 11 inches by 14 inches, and was rendered in charcoal and Rembrandt pastel.

Lytton's owner did not have a lot of photos of him because, well, he's extremely camera shy! She wanted a portrait of him with a noble, alert look on his face. I took several (faraway and zoomed in!) photos of him myself, and studied the results and rendered this pose and expression. Isn't he handsome?

Lytton is a big, friendly boy, and when he drinks water--he sticks his WHOLE nose deep into the bowl. I saw that firsthand and it completely made my day. What a great dog!

Go to my pet portrait website to learn how you can commission your very own pet portrait. (They also make great gifts!)

copy and paste in your browser:

www.helenscanlonpetportraits.blogspot.com

painting in the sun...

2009-07-14T06:33:00.003-04:00

This year, summer in Connecticut has been rainy, rainy, rainy.

And rainy.

And, there are slugs everywhere (yuck). I keep putting pans of beer in my garden, and they are slurping it down like there is no tomorrow. The slugs are having a regular ol' kegger in my backyard! At least they're quiet about it. Dead quiet. Heehee.

This past Saturday was beautiful, however. Not a slug in sight. I took this opportunity to paint outside under a cascading grapevine.

A slugless, sunny day. Aaaaaah.

Oh, and I got ice cream later that day, too! (Americone Dream)

Anyway, here's a pic of my latest on the easel under said cascading grapevine.

More great weather ahead! Take that, slugs!

a closer look at "Percheron"

2009-07-11T09:22:00.006-04:00

here is Percheron, 24" x 24", acrylic, charcoal, and composite silver leaf on deep cradled Ampersand Gessobord.

click on each image to see it bigger.

Top is the full view, the other images are details to show line, texture and the metal leaf.

Please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio(at)charter.net if you would like to add this piece to your collection.

summertime studio update

2009-07-11T08:07:00.005-04:00

Currently on the easel: a bright bay on 30 inch by 30 inch Gessobord panel.

I love bays, I think it just might be my favorite horse color. A bay coat holds a prism of color: cobalt blues, deep violets, crimson, magenta...
When the sun hits a bay horse, you can see a rainbow in each strand of their hair. The black mane and tail are also rich with deep blues and russet tones.

Heavenly!

(above image is a detail from "Here Comes That Farrier Again." This pastel/charcoal piece depicts a bay horse looking for that person who makes a lot of clanging noises and smoke...)

Also, in the studio: an almost completed dog portrait. Pet portraits are so much fun! I love doing them. Visit my pet portrait website here (copy and paste in your browser):

www.helenscanlonpetportraits.blogspot.com

Ordering a pet or horse portrait is so easy...And it makes a great gift. Thinking about it? Just e-mail me with any questions: soundthebuglestudio (at) charter.net
and put "portrait" in the subject line.

I love hearing from folks, so drop me a line.

Back to the studio!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T15:26:00.004-04:00

Here's the silver grey dappled Percheron, finished on Father's Day!
This piece was done in memory of my father who loved the majesty and power of the draft horse.

Percheron, 24" x 24", charcoal, acrylic paint and composite silver leaf on deep cradled Ampersand Gessobord.

if you would like to add this piece to your collection, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio(at)charter.net for purchasing information.

Forward

2009-06-14T11:08:00.004-04:00

Forward, 24" x 30", acrylic, charcoal and copper leaf on deep cradled Ampersand Gessobord.

A new piece inspired by the beautiful Brentina; she was on my mind when I painted this. Give the pic a click to see it bigger.

If you would like to add Forward to your collection, please e-mail me at soundthebuglestudio (at ) charter.net for purchasing information.

Seabiscuit postage stamp now available!

2009-06-08T07:12:00.004-04:00

How cool!

The stamp was designed by John Mattos, and it was unveiled in May.

The stamp depicts the match race Seabiscuit ran with War Admiral. My oh my--look at Seabiscuit blow the doors off of the Triple Crown winner! This is the moment Seabiscuit became a true Champion...and it was captured beautifully with this beautiful Mattos illustration.

Here's a story about the unveiling ceremony:

http://www.legendhorse.com/ranchnews11.html

Side note:For those of you who have not read Laura Hillenbrand's masterfully written book on Seabiscuit--what are you waiting for? Get a copy today. It's an amazing story.

New work in progress

2009-06-06T14:10:00.005-04:00

...a chestnut doing a bit of an extended trot. I guess I've been thinking of how much I'll miss seeing Brentina in the dressage arena.

I will post the final soon.

A dressage great, a true Champion: Brentina retires

2009-06-04T06:20:00.013-04:00

Great story and fantastic photos of Brentina's retirement ceremony, April 17, 2009 in Las Vegas:

http://www.dressage-news.com/?p=538

and... I found some great vids of the ceremony! Look at that passage she does to Aretha Franklin! Is this horse great or what? (go ahead...I dare you not to cry when you watch these videos):

and, make sure you see this video, too. It's just beautiful:

http://www.clubequestrian.com/videos/watch/1097218420.aspx

Brentina was one of the greats in dressage; a powerful, graceful, beautiful coppery chestnut mare with a sweet face and a big heart. She had incredible natural talent and she achieved dressage greatness with the wonderful Debbie McDonald on her back. Their harmonious performances delighted and awed so many.

What a team. Check out this video of them in action:

Thank you, Brentina. Enjoy your retirement! I wish you happiness and lots of sweet treats.

Final

2009-06-03T15:35:00.006-04:00

Red Bay, 16" x20" charcoal, acrylic paint, and gesso on deep cradled Ampersand Gessobord.

I added deep crimson along with burnt sienna to bring out the bay coat. I added more deep black compressed charcoal to add gestures of muscle contour and texture. White gesso was also used for highlights, mainly on the metal bit.

Fun is!

If you feel like getting up close and personal with this piece, click on the image to make it bigger. The textures and shapes the charcoal, gesso and paint formed are pretty neat. I just applied it and left it alone to dry and do its thing...

more in progress...

2009-05-31T11:05:00.007-04:00

1. More charcoal is added. An eraser is used to blend and add texture.
2. Color is added. Watered down acrylic paint adds a little depth to the horse's coat
3. More acrylic paint is added for some background. I chose watered down cobalt blue. I love how it blends with the charcoal to add shapes and textures.

Final piece, coming up!

I love fast drying quality of acrylic paint. I tend to work quickly, and acrylic paint ensures that I don't have to wait too long to work between layers. The muse in my head can get captured before it gallops away....

Prince Harry plays polo during first official US visit

2009-05-30T18:28:00.005-04:00

Prince Harry of Wales, plays polo for the second annual Veuve Clicquot Manhattan Polo Classic match in New York, Saturday, May 30, 2009. (photo: Reuters)

from AP news: He followed in his mother's footsteps Saturday by raising money for a charity that supports AIDS orphans as he played polo in a city Princess Diana loved.

The Prince not only looks like his mother, but he seems to be as generous and gracious as she was, too.

He also looks like quite the polo player!

(Yes, his team won!)

For the full story on the Prince's US visit, go here:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090530/ap_on_en_ot/us_prince_harry

Work in Progress

2009-05-29T10:39:00.002-04:00

I thought I would share this new piece as it progresses. It is charcoal (and other media, to be determined) on a 16" x 20" Ampersand Gessobord.

Usually, I do a prelim sketch on newsprint, then transfer it to the board using vine charcoal as a sort of carbon copier. This sketch went directly onto the board with a vine charcoal base and extra soft charcoal on top of the vine charcoal. I will add more layers of extra soft, extra black charcoal as the drawing progresses.

Vine charcoal is extremely erasable. The extra soft, compressed charcoal; not so much. The vine charcoal allows me to do many changes as the final drawing emerges. Since I do not copy photos and rely heavily on my imagination and memory to create a piece, the vine charcoal is a godsend. It allows my imagination to run wild. I can change my mind and change a line on whim. With one sweep of a cloth and few swipes of an eraser, I can change the position of the horse, the muscle, the expression. Anything. Memory and imagination are not static!

Once I see what I want to see, I can use a more permanent charcoal and add a thick, black line. The charcoal is given a coat of archival art varnish once the piece is completed.

I will post updates as this piece progresses.

Updated Website

2009-05-29T08:23:00.001-04:00

www.soundthebuglestudio.com has been updated and revamped. New work for sale!

Check it out and let me know what you think.

Contango and Ravel

2009-05-29T08:07:00.006-04:00

Like father, like son.

Contango was a top dressage stallion. Just take a peek and see why:

His beauty and fluidity of movement brings to tears to my eyes! Rest in peace, great stallion.

And his son, Ravel, placed 4th in the Beijing Olympics with the amazing rider, Steffen Peters.

Ravel is one of my favorite dressage horses; I fell in awe of him the moment I saw his performances at the 2008 Olympics. Check out that elasticity and superb collection! It's like he has springs in his joints. Amazingly beautiful:

Sound the Bugle, the horse

2009-05-27T09:42:00.002-04:00

Here he is, Sound the Bugle, in his dressage teacher getup.

Rest in peace, dear horse.

Sound The Bugle Studio

Newest portrait---first for 2012!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

as 2011 comes to a close...

Collaboration Announcement--JEWELRY!

Thank you!

Holiday Open Studio

The fall/winter itinerary--mark your calendars!

...Fall is around the corner...then...

Bend II

Bend

scenes from a busy studio!

The Chronicle story

War Horse

UC Toronado

UC Doc Daniels

...um, that's...um..who's that?

The Darley Arabian

Man o' War

STALLIONS RULE!

New Book Illustration

The book journey continues....

Book Blog!

BIG PROJECT! Revealed!

ZENYATTA! Horse of the Year!

to those we lost this month...

*tears* another loss...Goodbye, Nim Nim

Goodbye to my dear old friend, Cavan

Don't Cry for the Horses

One eleven eleven! Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays! See you in 2011...

Day three of cold...aaachooooooo!

Cooper

Today...

THANK YOU

HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIO!

UConn interview now available!

SECRETARIAT

a break!

All rested up and ready to go....

Artist of the Month

onward...

Autumn is almost here! A quick check in--

UC High Hopes, aka "Shoe"

Why I love acrylic paint

Back to the Barn

Lusitano Grey

WEBSITE UPDATED!!!

You may not know this, so...

Happy Birthday to me, part two

Happy Birthday to me! featuring a work in progress...

Sound the Bugle Studio at Lebanon Farmers' Market!

Hall Of Fame! Congrats, UC Ringmaster!

Dark Steed Triptych

Gold Rush

Buttercup

The freedom of freehand

Thank you!

Bay With D-Ring

Grey in Blue and Green

Red on Red

Spring Open Studio has been scheduled!

Legend VI, on the way!

...continue to keep Courtney King-Dye in your prayers...

Z E N Y A T T A ! ! ! !

NOW it's done!

Goodbye, Blue Hors Matine...

Remember...

Pencil sketches...

Felic and Jimmy

Happy Holidays

Legend IV: Whirlaway

'tis the season

A book review

THANK YOU!

Holiday Open Studio

Zenyatta makes history

Fair Play

Hastings

Legendary Sires Triptych in progress: First step: create preliminary sketches

tears another loss...Goodbye, Nim Nim