There is something in the eyes of an animal that connects with us. Their faces full of trust, loyalty and hopefulness can bring us peace in the midst of so many storms. In her Equine & Herd series, Atlanta artist Courtney J. Garrett captures the tranquility of domestic animals, showing us the gentle spirit behind the bucolic.
The Little Foxes Turned and the Fields Stopped Bleeding No. 14, mixed media oil on birch wood with resin, 48×48
The Awakening, mixed media oil on birch wood with resin, 48×48
What is it about the presence of another species that seems to make life more bearable? While we were living in Northern Idaho, a simple walk up to our mailbox, passing by the horse corral was enough to lift my spirits, as the horses trotted over to investigate. Or even spotting a small bird flitting around city streets will instantly calm me.
The Little Foxes Turned and the Fields Stopped Bleeding No. 12, mixed media oil on birch wood with resin, 36×36
Perhaps we are envious of the simplicity of an animal’s life? How they are provided for, whether by their human guardians or by the natural world surrounding them. They’ve no need to fret over the presidential election, car payments, or forgetting to call on Mother’s Day. They are happy merely to exist.
Free, mixed media oil on birch wood with resin, 60×60
Reconciliation No. 5, mixed media oil on birch wood with resin, 24×24
To see more of Courtney J. Garret’s work, please visit her website.
Artist found via Exhibit by Abersons, her representing gallery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
All images are via the artist’s website.
