This past week I completed a piece that has been in the works for a couple of months. I’ve had the idea in my head for at least a year, and finally set some time aside to create it.

The idea was a dark, purplish stormy sky, a dark horse with a young woman on its back. I wanted to evoke some emotion for the viewer, and initially planned on going for passion and deep connection. As I started painting, the whole thing shifted to a girl just entering puberty hiding in the mane of her horse. It was so different from my first thought. I felt like the painting was guiding me. I asked family members for a title, and my mom suggested “Solace.” That fit perfectly.

The story that began to emerge was one of coming of age, fearing what that brings, and seeking the protection of her powerful friend. The horse symbolizes many things, and for a young girl it can feel like her best friend. Yet, dreams about horses symbolize sexuality, and a black horse signifies feelings of the end of one thing and beginning of another.

The girl in the painting is fearful of her womanhood, and clings to the strong power of her friend, peeking out for a glimpse of what wonders and dangers are yet to come.