Watching someone react to my artwork for the first time, especially if the reaction is one of great emotion, is incredibly rewarding. I often see it when exhibiting my work at art shows and there is no better feeling for an artist than to witness such reactions and the see a connection between viewer and art.
I will never forget the time I watched tears streaming down the face of a woman as she stood quietly in front of one of my pieces. We did not share a word that day, as it was not the time to intrude on her thoughts. But we did have a chance to talk about her connection to my image when she came back next day to revisit it and take it home.
There have been stories of how an image reminds someone of the protection they felt from a loved one, the remembrance of relationships with lost parents and even how a photograph encourage them to be confident when facing life's adversities.
Curious? Very.
I'm always curious to know what moves people enough to acquire my artwork. Although there is not always a clear answer, it seems that most often a piece inspires or triggers strong feelings - happiness, joy, love.
People approach art from different places, bringing their own baggage and experiences to the table. Wild horses have such an array of traits that we search for and value in our own lives - confidence, resilience, loyalty, love. No wonder there is such a connection.
As with any other form of art, a powerful photograph also has the ability to stir something inside us that has not been "awakened" for some time, something we can't quite put a finger on; or a powerful image activates a hazy memory that isn't yet clear. Emotions that sometimes are too personal to share with someone you don't know.
So when I ask "what moved you?", often the answer is as simple and sincere as
"it just speaks to me..."
Following a herd of wild horses a few years ago in the Onaqui Mountains of Utah, we had gone almost a week without seeing a particular stallion we were searching for. Every day, we drove for hours through the mountains where the South herd had recently been spotted, with no luck.
I will always remember the day when we found him, far up in the mountains overlooking the vast Great Basin Desert. Goliath lives up to his name. As beautiful as he is strong, Goliath has inspired many people with his resilience, elegance, beauty and grace. A true lead stallion, the way he carries himself reminds me how important it is to lead with confidence and grace - he inspires me to be better, do better and keep growing.
An elegant, powerful mustang stallion - especially one who is soft gazed - will always "speak to me."
About Maria Marriott
Maria's equine artwork has been recognized for its emotional impact and intimate portrayal of wild horses.
Maria works closely with several non-profit organizations focused on the benefits of equine therapy and preservation of the mustangs on US Western lands.
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