Commissioned Paintings
Commissioning a painting is an individual process. Ruth undertakes a limited number of commissions each year, preferring to meet the subject(s) if possible. This allows Ruth to see nuances of expression, colour, light and character; make her own notes, drawings and photo references. If the animal is not available for reference, Ruth is able to look at images that you have, and listen to you stories, memories and experiences. She will tell you if she can 'see' a painting. You will then be able to see, discuss and choose from a series of highly detailed drawings, so that you know what your painting will represent, and so that you can tell Ruth which most closely depicts the animal that you see everyday. Delivery of the finished painting includes the drawings made during the process, which many clients also have framed, or which can be bound into a collection. Please see FAQs 5-7 (under the /about tab) for more details on the commissioning process and pricing guides.
Testimonials
Client confidentiality is very important to Ruth, and the testimonials shown have been credited as agreed by the individuals concerned and are published with the individuals' permission.
"Ruth did a painting of myself and my very special chestnut mare. It is the most beautiful and creative picture that I have ever seen. Ruth has captured the true essence of my horse physically and emotionally and the painting brings me indescribable joy each time I see it. If you want a lasting memory of your equine partner I highly recommend you engage Ruth. Not only is she a superlative artist she is also very personable and lovely throughout the whole process of meeting you and your horse, taking the photos etc. I love my Ruth painting".
~ Grace Olson, Author of The Yard
“We were so delighted with Ruth’s painting of our horse Magic (Walk On Star), that we have also commissioned a painting of our two dogs”
~ Nick and Barbara W
“My husband and I both independently asked Ruth to paint our horses for Christmas and we are absolutely thrilled with the pictures. They are so true to life and Ruth has captured their personalities perfectly.”
~ Identity withheld
“Ruth Buchanan, especially in her splendid pictures of dressage and event horses in action, has established herself as an artist of great fluency and finesse, with an insider’s feel for the drama and detail of equestrian competition. But perhaps her most distinctive trait is her gift for capturing the character of both horse and rider, whether in moments of intense concentration, or in the relaxed arena of the practice ground. Among contemporary artists, few can surpass her portraits of the empathy between the competitive rider and the horse at all stages of those most demanding of sports.”
~ John Fairley, Author of The Art Of The Horse
"My friends bought me a painting by Ruth of my two thoroughbreds for my 50th birthday. When I saw it I was stunned at how well she had captured the spirit and personality of each of them – my gelding’s cheekiness and my mare’s softness shine through. Not only is it a fabulous piece of art in its own right, every time I see it I’m reminded of how special they both are and how privileged I am to have them in my life".
~ Kathy L
"Ruth has painted a few of my horses and I have long admired her ability to capture their individual characters".
~ Pippa F