Hooked Up and Ready to Go: Kamas Parade
- watercolor
- Don Weller
In Weller’s watercolor portrait, two draft horses in full parade regalia stand poised for action. The horses’ black coats and twin white-blazed faces pop dramatically against the stark ochre background. The body language of the horses suggests anticipation as well as distinct personalities; one looking proud, one curious, both ready. “I want the paintings to suggest little scenes, start little stories,” writes Weller about his work, “but to ask more questions than they answer.” Similarly, the artist gives just enough in his rendering to suggest the gleaming of parade harnesses, polished tack, and one bright red ornamental tassel—almost like a rose in the lapel of the handsome animal’s tuxedo. Weller says that he wants his paintings to “feel fresh, like it was painted as quickly and as simply as possible.” There is a masterful openness and generosity in that simplicity—what is left out is perhaps just as important as what’s there.
A blending of two long held passions, art and horses, has led Don Weller to produce an exceptional body of work. Raised near Pullman, Washington, Don received a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art from Washington State University. He then pursued a successful career as an illustrator and graphic designer in Los Angeles. The next chapter of his life brought him back in touch with the horses and cattlemen of his youth. Working on a book project for the National Horse Cutting Association, Don traveled throughout the West painting cowboys in action. Today Don and his wife Cha Cha live in Oakley, UT.
- Current Location: Summit County Administration Building - 60 N Main St Coalville, UT 84017 (google map)
- Collections: Summit County Collection