Saturday, January 22, 2011

LONGHORN RANCHER by Angela Elledge


8x8 oil on canvas panel
I met Kermit several years ago while visiting home one summer. My brother had kept a newspaper article for me about a man who had left his successful career to return home to SW Louisiana and begin a career as a longhorn cattleman. I boldly called him and explained that I was interested in photographing his longhorn cattle for future paintings. We had 3 cameras working and took well over 800 photos...click and shoot, edit later...what did we do before digital photography? Not only did I leave Kermit's ranch with an abundance of material for paintings, but he would not let us leave without a huge bag filled with an assortment of longhorn steaks! If you've never been to Louisiana, you're missing out on meeting some of the kindest people around.

And speaking of kind people, that just happens to be all of you, too. Thank you so much for your comments and e-mails! This was specifically painted for this month's challenge, Cowboy Up, at Some Texas Artists Like to Paint, another group of really kind folks.

5 comments:

Linda Popple said...

I love this painting, Angela. Great job on the hat and scarf. I like the way he is looking down, too.

Your story is just wonderful. Kermit certainly is a generous person!

Autumn Leaves said...

Love that sense of humility or shyness coming through this quite handsome gentleman. Well done, Angela!

Dana Cooper said...

Looks like he could be from Texas!
This a wonderful tribute to your Louisiana trip, great palette and brush work Angela!

Carol Horzempa said...

Beautiful portrait and story of this kind rancher, Angela. love your tonal colors and brushwork!

Pattie Wall said...

Your brushwork and color is lovely, Angela! He sounds like a person to know!