From The Studio - January
Dear friends and collectors,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2026 and the Year of the Horse, I’m feeling especially inspired by the energy of forward momentum and new beginnings. This year promises a wealth of fresh paintings and exciting directions emerging from my studio, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
In this edition, you’ll find my musings on what the Year of the Horse means to me and how it connects back to the childhood sketches that first sparked my passion for art.
Thank you for being part of this journey. I’m so looking forward to a year of creativity and shared inspiration.
Warmly,
Kathryn
In the front yard with my painting, “Three Muses”, : 30"h x 48"w, oil on canvas. Jennifer Esperanza Photography
Musings: The Year of the Horse — Then & Now
As we step into 2026, the Year of the Horse, I find myself reflecting on how deeply this symbol resonates in my own life. Horses have always been more than a subject to me—they’ve been a constant companion, a muse, and a thread woven through every season of my life. Looking back at these childhood drawings—simple pencil sketches of horses and riders—I’m struck by how clearly my young self already knew what she loved. Even then, I was watching, studying, imagining, and dreaming in horse shapes and movement. It’s tender and a little astonishing to see how those early instincts still live in my work today.
The Year of the Horse is said to carry the energy of forward motion, independence, momentum, and living boldly. It is about movement with purpose and the courage to follow what calls you. When I compare those early drawings with the horse paintings I create now, I see not just growth in skill, but a lifelong commitment to a dream that never left me. There is something powerful about honoring the passions we have as children and giving ourselves permission to carry them forward into adulthood—refined, deepened, but still true.
As we move through this year together, I hope you feel encouraged to reflect on your own long-held dreams—the quiet ones, the bold ones, the ones that have waited patiently. The energy of the Horse invites us to move forward with heart, strength, and authenticity. If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that it is never too late—and never too indulgent—to live the life that has always been whispering to you.
