body of personal work, some of which will be sold at The Grand Bohemian Gallery where she has representation. She will continue to create equestrian works of art that are engaging and original and strive for excellence in all aspects as her business grows. She will also continue to ride and notes that while she loves riding, it does not come as easy to her as painting. “Painting has always been so natural for me though I know I still have much to learn. Riding, however, is such a challenge. It really stretches me in ways that painting cannot. Pursuing my personal development as a rider is of utmost importance because it is integral to my quest as an equine artist and teaches me more about myself. It all comes full circle because painting horses makes me a better rider as I learn skills of patience, determination, and discipline. Riding makes me a better artist as I practice skills relating to maintaining relationships through communication and sensitivity, self-awareness, concentration, balance, and assertiveness.” Ferris, quite simply, is captivated by the horse and recognizes the special bond between a horse and its rider. Like most equestrians, she believes that horses make us better people, truer versions of ourselves. Through the use of color, composition, and accurate rendering, Ferris aims to depict and reflect the deep-rooted passion and complexity of the human-horse relationship. Above all, she also shows the love for the essence of the horse and all it symbolizes. A UNIVERSAL L ANGUAGE Running her own business is very time-consuming, but Ferris makes sure she sets time aside for riding, visiting with family and
friends, and playing the piano. She also enjoys going on walks with her dachshund Gretchen Wieners, her “studio assistant” who keeps her company while she paints. Ferris is also quick to give thanks to God for giving her the gift of artistic talent and blessing her with family, friends, teachers, and clients who have helped and supported her since the beginning. Ferris says one of her greatest accomplishments is having a job that brings her joy. She has worked hard to get to this stage where she has a great portfolio of work, both personal and custom, and she has patrons who believe in and value her work. She knows there is a connection between horses and art that will last forever. “Art engages and challenges people, and above all, it communicates something – it’s a universal language. The horse has been an integral part of human history since the beginning; as societies and cultures developed, you find that the horse played a vital role. When I create a painting of the horse, it’s more than that; it is the idea, the mystery, the essence, as well as the rich history they have been a part of, influenced by my own personal experience. By creating works of art that showcase the horse, I am communicating a message that connects with equestrians all over the world and will speak to future generations.”
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“Formal Portrait of Legato,” Custom Commission, Oil on Belgian Linen, 36"x48", 2016