Page 17 - Appaloosas Now Dec/Jan 2021

ART OF THE APPALOOSA Deb Pearse Mitchell
Altsoba, an ancient Navajo word meaning everyone is at war, is sadly fitting for today’s world. The majestic war pony is ready for battle, adorned with eagle feathers, war paint and his warrior’s handprint.
The pony’s head floats in a delicate balancing among the spears of past, present and future battles. Below, the ground is incised with wandering and intersecting paths mirroring
the paths and choices we all follow. Some paths will be easy, others not. It is the warrior’s choice.
The war pony has returned unscathed, but his rider is unseen. His warrior will not return. The crumpled eagle feathers and leather bindings on the ground are all that remains of the warrior. His trappings stand for all our lost, missing and damaged warriors.
VIEW DEB’S FB PAGE HERE! VIEW WEBSITE HERE!
Steel Sculpting is my passion. I grew up working along side of my Dad in the family fabrication shop. He taught me to weld at the age of 8. My adult life took me away from metal work to successfully pursue a career in other art fields.
Thirteen years ago the death of my son brought me back to my roots of metal working. It became my way to cope and
heal. Combining my love for God & horses with my passion for steel art has set my course in life .
My creations vary from equine themed hand pounded to ranch gates & large scale sculptures. Each piece is hand formed using a variety of hand tools, alot of muscle and alot of love.
Appaloosas Now - December/January
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