Little Red Hen Art Factory
An Insight
About the Artist
As a ranchwoman, horses have always been a part of my life. Today, thanks to wonderful photographers who share their images, I can focus on creating portraits of wild horses, capturing their spirit from the Rocky Mountains to Sable Island and down into the Southern States. After sharing a few photos of my horse portraits online, the humbling response inspired me to offer prints to the public.
After years of touring as a professional musician with my talented daughter—and releasing three CDs — I shifted to a quieter lifestyle that allowed me to explore my passion for painting. My journey in the arts began early on; I studied Art at the University of Lethbridge while earning a Bachelor of Education, which paved the way for years of teaching in both elementary schools and adult education. Music remained a constant thread in my life, taking me on a global journey before I ultimately returned to a more peaceful pace where painting has grown from a hobby into a meaningful pursuit.
Each piece is an artistic celebration of the plight of these magnificent creatures, with a portion of the proceeds going toward wild horse organizations that are fueling the fight to preserve the untamed legacy of these incredible animal families. Having been invited by HAWS on a journey to the Rocky Mountains, I am looking forward to a trip this spring to experience them once again in their wild state.
In essence, my art reflects a life lived boldly and a deep love for nature’s wild wonders—a testament to the eternal dance between human creativity and the majestic spirit of the wild horse.
- Joanne Myrol
"I dream of a better world where chickens can cross the road without having their motives questioned."
– Unknown
The poem “When I Am an Old Horsewoman” by Patty Barnhart has been shared all over the internet, and I absolutely love it. Every time I read it, it strikes a chord. It feels like I’m stepping into the very years it describes — and honestly, it’s starting to feel like my signature song. One evening, while playing around on my soundboard in the music studio downstairs, I stumbled across some interesting effects. On a whim, I started singing “When I Am an Old Horsewoman.” Just a one-take run on my iPhone — no production, no polish — a simple, heartfelt tribute to a poem that speaks to something real and lasting. A beautiful piece written by an honest horsewoman. These years... they’re something special. Not something to dread, but something we work toward — a quieter kind of joy, earned over time. These are the good years. The ones we get to savour. Now, I can settle in on a stormy winter’s night, with Dan in his chair reading, and the wood stove quietly crackling. I put on a few inspirational songs, pick up a brush, and pour my heart and soul into every stroke of paint. It’s peaceful, grounding — and full of joy.
"When I am an Old Horsewoman" by Patricia Barnhart When I am an Old Horsewoman I shall wear turquoise and diamonds, And a straw hat that doesn't suit me. And I shall spend my social security on White wine and carrots. And sit in my alley-way of my barn And listen to my horses breathe I will sneak out in the middle of a summer night And ride the old paint gelding Across the moonstruck meadow If my old bones will allow And when people come to call, I will smile and nod As I walk past the gardens to the barn And show instead the flower growing Inside stalls fresh-lined with straw I will shovel and sweat and wear hay in my hair As if it were a jewel And I will be an embarrassment to all Who will not yet have found the peace in being free To have a horse as a best friend A friend who waits at midnight hour With muzzle and nicker and patient eyes For the kind of woman I will be When I am old. Poem written by Patricia (Patty) Barnhart
I grew up during the Outlaw Years of country music — you know, the era when you were either riding the edge or you weren’t on the trail at all. Naturally, when it came time to put together my first album, I had my heart set on recording Hoyt Axton’s “Water for My Horses.” But of course, wanting to stay on the right side of the music business, I knew I needed permission to record it. So, I did what any brave-but-totally-intimidated aspiring artist would do — I picked up the phone and called Mae Axton, the legendary songwriter who co-wrote the tune. Yes, that Mae Axton. The one who penned hits for the likes of Elvis. I'm still not entirely sure how I even got her number — probably some whispered connection passed along through the secret country music grapevine. Anyway, I left a message on her answering machine, my voice somewhere between hopeful and squeaky. Then I hung up feeling... well, a little silly. I figured I’d just shot my shot into the void. Nashville royalty probably wasn’t sitting by the phone waiting for me. So, I went about my business — which, at the time, meant getting ready for a night gig. I climbed into the shower and was midway through shampooing when the phone rang. And wouldn’t you know it — it was Mae Axton. With shampoo still in my eyes and soapy water dripping everywhere, I lunged for a towel, grabbed the phone, and pressed it to my bubble-covered ear. Before I could even say a word, I heard this slow, smoky Tennessee drawl float through the line: “Could you hurry it up, this is loooonnng distance.” I was instantly hooked. Enchanted. Starstruck. Absolutely enamoured. I apologized, probably still dripping wet, and explained the situation. She said: “Sure. Record it.” Just like that. No contracts. No drama. Just a towel-wrapped dreamer getting the green light from a Nashville legend. And that, folks, is how I learned that sometimes dreams come true — even when you’re soaking wet and talking to greatness through a cloud of steam. Now when I look back on my brief encounter with Mae Axton I feel a whole different connection to that darling old lady.
Vision
My vision is to use art as a powerful tool for raising awareness about the preservation of wild horses and their natural habitats. Through my portraits, I aim to capture the raw beauty and spirit of these magnificent creatures, inspiring others to advocate for their protection. I want my work to serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving the untamed legacy of wildlife, particularly the wild horse populations that roam from the Rocky Mountains to Sable Island. By offering a portion of my proceeds to wild horse organizations, I hope to contribute to their efforts in safeguarding these animals for future generations. Ultimately, my vision is to create a lasting impact, combining art and advocacy to support the free and wild lives of these incredible animals.
