Here is the latest update on Gentle Compassion. I have some sad news, actually I felt so bad when I heard I got tears in my eyes. If you recall the Gentle Compassion drawing is based on a photograph of a retired race horse called, Pacific Reach. When these beautiful horses finish their career in racing they are retired to a sanctuary where they are well care for throughout the rest of their lives. I received word yesterday that Pacific Reach became ill and had passed away.
How sad was that? In my experience with drawing, I become very connected with the subject I draw and especially in this case. By working on this gorgeous horse for 7 weeks (30 minutes/week) I feel like I know every muscle, vein and hair on its hide, an emotional bond has been formed – what a loss of a beautiful animal.
As I finish this piece, probably 4 more weeks, I can’t think of a more perfect title than, Gentle Compassion . . . may he rest in peace and find his golden carrot.
Reference image was taken by Photographer/Artist, Ruth Archer of pmp
Oil Pastels by Mary 
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I hope Pacific Reach enjoyed his retirement for some years before moving on to greener pastures. He had a good life and even got to retire, so that’s beautiful thing. Don’t feel badly, he’s in horsey heaven now 🙂
I think you are so right, he is in a much better place. Thank you for your wonderful comment.
That is such tragic news of this beautiful horse. It was serendipity that you should meet him and begin to immortalize his spirit and soul. Such a gift you have given him.
Thank you Emily, something about this piece that is making it more special every time I work on it. It’s been a honor for me to draw him.
Wow- poor thing. It makes it all the more special and meaningful that you are creating this beautiful drawing of him.
Yes my friend! Thank you so much ~
Mary so sorry to hear about your subject’s passing. Your lovely drawing is a beautiful tribute.
Thank you Elena!!
An absolutely wonderful piece of art. Those caring emotions are well conveyed and experienced through the view you lovingly share. Your drawing is beautiful! I have no doubt that he has received his golden carrot! Penny
Hi Penny, so nice to meet you – thank you for visiting my blog. Thank you for your very kind comment – I really appreciate it.
Hi Mary, a pleasure to meet you also. I meant each word most sincerely, I could draw by the time I was 6 and drawing for me has been there my whole life, it is personal, so I was very moved by your beautiful piece, reflecting so clearly, not just your talent but the emotions involved as well!
yes, when we are really focused on a study of an animal or a person – or even a landscape or flower or tree, we know it well by the time we are finished. long ago i ‘spooked’ myself several times when working on studies of people – so much that i felt as if i were a voyeur. i don’t mind doing studies of animals, but i dislike doing people – it seems like i’m spying on that person.
although you feel a great sadness, you surely are happy to have had such a strong connection to the horse through your drawing sessions.
the drawing is incredible!
Hi Lisa, interesting feedback – when you put it like that I guess we do become a bit of a voyeur when drawing. I don’t draw that often so this is a good break for me – thanks for your continued encouragement! Have a fantastic weekend ~
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beautiful I can see his eye love that I am learning about hair with this it takes lots of patience I think you have it. very good!
HI Doris, thanks for your kind comment. Usually with human hair I brush out after drawing giving a sort of silky texture, with the horses short hair I’ve had to do a bit of cross-hatching, but not true full cross-hatching and I roughed the hairs with a stump tortilium.
I do understand your technique; the hair looks like you want to touch it, I am learning through this piece so much since I never draw until now. Keep the good work!
So glad you had an opportunity to capture him. Such a beautiful creature.
Thanks very much for your wonderful comments!!
Ahhh, heart to heart communication through drawing. Pacific Reach may have passed on, but s/he is so coming to life in your drawing. Beautiful…and gentle compassion.
Hi Cyndi, thanks – I’m excited to complete the drawing. It will be a tribute to a wonderful animal. Have a great weekend!
Mary it is amazing how human we are and how much we get in-touch with our subjects when painting. It is very sad story but as always you think that they had the best of life and you feel good about it. I am sorry for you but enjoy to see that such a beautiful horse had the privilege to be painted by talented and caring person like you.
Hi Doron, how true – we tend to get close to our subjects. Thank you for your lovely comments.
That is so sad.. RIP Pacific Reach! The title is perfect, and I’m sure your final painting will be wonderful and help keep his memory alive. Hugs Mary from Calee ❤
Hi Calee, thanks very much for your special words!
Oh that is sad Mary . This special drawing you have been taking such care with and working on in smaller time frames than usual will mean even more when you have finished it . And yes, a perfect title indeed . Gentle Compassion.,
Hi Poppy – thank you for your lovely words of encouragement. Have a wonderful weekend!
Oh …how sad!!!I believe that it was meant for you to do this drawing now… its looking great!!
Hi, thank you so much for your gracious comments!
Couldn’t agree more on the title, Mary. I am so sorry to hear about this beautiful being. May he rest in peace…
Thank you Marina for your lovely comment! Have a wonderful weekend ~