Buddies
36" x 24" oil
© 1998 Deborah Nelson
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This image was captured on a very crisp snowy day in Castle Rock, Colorado. Snow was actually falling at the time and lucky for me I had my camera along when these two began to frolic and romp in the winter pasture.

The horses belong to two of my riding friends. The black one is Toma and the chestnut is King. They were steadfast pasture companions and King was what the name implies, "The King."

Mom! He’s Touching Me!
8” x 10” oil
© 1999 Deborah Nelson
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I watched  the first day of school for about a dozen young colts at a ranch in Larkspur, Colorado. They all had halters on for the first time and were having a tough time adjusting to them. I think the halter on this one's friend bothered him more than the halter on himself.

I was lucky to capture the moment. It didn't take long for them to get used to their new tack.

Robin is my horse and was 25 years old at the time I painted her portrait. I thought it a fitting celebration for her first 25 years.  

She brings me such joy and companionship. We ride for hours in the local hills enjoying the Rocky Mountain scenery and wildlife. She is steady on the trail, rarely spooking and never being stubborn. Recently a large white tail deer sprang out of the scrub oak right in our path and she didn't flinch; I can't say as much for myself.

This painting hangs in a special place over the fireplace in our living room.

"Miss Priss"
13" x 11" oil
© 2001 Deborah Nelson
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A  local equestrian and equine photographer from Castle Rock wanted to have the beauty of her liver chestnut mare, Miss Priss, captured in oils. 

The source photographs were taken when Miss Priss was in her prime. Although she is "seasoned" in her senior years, she is still captivating. I was privileged to visit Miss Priss in the open mesa pastures above Castle Rock on a cool fall day while discussing the details for the painting with her owner.