Painter Shandy Staab beautifully captures the power, grace and character of her equine subjects. Enjoy her portfolio and see more by visiting her website.
My work is derived entirely from my experiences.
They are often inspired through an intimate, hands-on experience with the subject matter. Living in and among a rich western culture is what encourages many of my pieces to come to fruition.
I have a deep passion for animals both domestic and wild, with horses being my specialty. They are my life force—they spark the flames of desire to create on canvas.
Most of my paintings are emotively driven. The employment of soft brush work and insightful, emotive color are at the helm. These elements, paired with correct anatomy, give each of my subjects a sense of naturalism.
The viewer’s eye is welcomed to muddle through the painting, resting quietly in the soft, loosely applied colors and energized by the brilliant bits of expressive color.
I would like to fancy myself a contemporary realist—painting things that are believably real—but adding extra emotion through my use of artistic license. My creative process goes something like this: “Experience it. Feel it. Fall in love with it. Sketch it. Paint it.”
I want my viewer to become wrapped up in the feeling I felt when creating. It is simply the icing on the inspirational cake when I can share a moment with my collectors through a painting.
Art and horses have been a way of life for me. As a child, my playtime consisted mostly of drawing. As a young adult equestrian, I created equine portraits for horse business clients as a side hustle. I’ve turned those entrepreneurial desires into a full-time painting career.
Spending time with horses is what I do for me. Painting is how I relay all those past and current experiences.
My paintings are stories—true stories—of someone who not only romanticizes the western culture, but someone who has lived it in a real way.
Artist Shandy Staab invites you to follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Thank you Artsy Shark!… What a Beautiful article!
It’s a pleasure to share your outstanding portfolio, Shandy.
These are all so lovely. Can’t pick a favorite.
Thank you so much Martha! I really appreciate knowing that.