The Black Friesian

Working on a small painting of two horses I met at a local horse farm. I am enthralled by the large black  friesian, a regal and gentle giant. He is tender with the other horses even as he towers over them. He poses without trying - there's not a position he assumes that isn't flat-out gorgeous. When I come by to study the group, he comes to me at the fence and studies me. There's a familiarity about him. He reaches his long velvety nose through the fence to check me out for treats (I must remember to bring carrots next time), nuzzling my camera, my pads, my backpack. Then he pulls back and studies me - honestly, it feels as if he is communicating.

Watching the dynamics in the corral could entertain me for an entire day. The donkey, Jango, is bonded to Brody the draft horse, but he stands watch over the herd with his tiny little stature... as they circle to protect him when a stranger is in their midst. The black beauty has his favorites in the herd, the chestnut above and a silver mare. The striking sight of the silver mare next to the friesian is art in and of itself.