I have always loved to draw, as far back as I can remember, and just can't imagine life without art. I studied at the Colorado Institute of Art, intent on a career in graphic design until I took a mind and eye-opening study trip to Europe, visiting all the great museums. I then realized the immense possibilities of fine art and decided to further my studies of painting.The rest of my education has been to paint and draw as much as possible. My main focus for the past few years has been pastel, a medium I have loved since the first time I used it. Lately I have been experimenting more with oils and am discovering more and more avenues for expression. As far as subject matter is concerned, I am especially inspired by figurative work involving people and/or horses, especially in a setting of bright sunshine.
I am also inspired by western themes.When we were kids growing up in the suburbs of Denver, we always looked forward to the annual family vacation to visit our grandparents in the badlands of North Dakota. They lived a simple life in a log cabin with no running water and Grandma cooked great meals on an old wood stove. We kids ran through the hills dodging cactus and rattlesnakes and drove an old pickup truck to haul water. My favorite activities were the hot, dusty brandings and rodeos which have really stayed with me to this day. I now live in the ranching country of eastern Montana, surrounded by "Big Sky" inspiration.
I have enjoyed seeing my work included in exhibits across the western states and being featured in Western Horseman magazine. My work has garnered several awards, the most recent one being the "Spirit of the West Award" at the Wild Horse and Western Art Exhibit in Rawlins, Wyoming. I am especially proud of that award as the juror was well-known western artist , Ann Hanson. Other awards include placing 3rd in the Art Horse Magazine international competition, Ex Arte Equinus and First Place at the Western Heritage Artists Show in Great Falls, Montana. My pastel painting, "Dynamic Duo" was accepted into the 2008 Fall Exhibition of the American Academy of Equine Art in Lexington, Kentucky and won a Purchase Award at the Wild Horse and Western Art Show.
I am a member of the Western Heritage Artists Association and the Pastel Society of the Northern Rockies.
To keep up-to-date with my artwork and events, join the E-mail List to receive the free Artwork Update Newsletter and check my blog for random thoughts, inspiration and comments as I journey onward through this learning experience. I sure welcome any comments you may have.
Trish Stevenson Fine Art
