Fighter

Fighter

11x14

Oil on Stretched Canvas

This was such a fun project for me! I love dogs! I love the modern day hunter enthusiasts in my life! 

We all know we can go to the store and buy some poultry or a steak with ease. Modern day hunting is rooted in a survivalist tradition, but today it is all about the experience. I am the daughter of hunters, married into hunter, and it appears I am raising hunters. For me, the deer hunt or the elk hunt, is all about a weekend in a house and kitchen sporadically aglow with hunter orange. The hunters return with stories and smiles and sometimes, something to eat. Don't tell them I said this, but they don't often kill anything, but they seem so happy and content with their day. Always, my husband tells me how beautiful it is. It seems a great excuse to get out and get into nature and be with family. Maybe this isn't the experience for everyone.  I also know there is a huge spectrum of opinions in terms of hunting this day in age. But for our family it is a happy, pleasant time enjoying nature and each other. 

I am honored to be part of this gifting experience for my patron. Training an animal to hunt with you seems like it could be a degree at Hogwarts. It enters into the realm of magical for me. There is such a  great bond between the dog and his hunter. That moment when the dog freezes and points tense and still. So cool! So much communication happening with virtually no words! 

I am really pleased with this painting. I learned so much. Happy Hunting and Christmas!