Terry Freemark Watercolors

One thing that really surprises and inspires me whenever I visit the racetrack is the character of the jockeys. They have to be among the bravest athletes in the world. And they’re all so tiny, like smaller than 60 inches tall. Lightweights, too – usually 120 lbs or less. But they are all incredibly strong, and have great endurance. This jockey is no youngster; he has made his career on top of a horse. His knuckles were all arthritic.

Image size: 10 x 15 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 16 x 20 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

When I snapped the photo for this painting, I was more interested in the person sitting next to this man. But back in my studio, examining my photo, it became apparent that this man had a compelling story to tell in his gesture, and was much more inspiring to me.

Image size: 11 x 15 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 16 x 20 inches), in white

Availability: private collection

While I was looking for inspiration for a portrait this past autumn, I realized that EVERYONE around me was looking down at their phones. I guess that was inspiration enough, and it’s what guided me for this painting.

Image size: 15 x 22 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 21 x 28 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

I asked this woman if she would let me sketch her and I would put money in her cup. She was most obliging, and I felt good to pay her for her time and modeling. Win/win for each of us. Went back to my studio to do my painting.

Image size: 11 x 14 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 16 x 20 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

As the title says, I saw this man sitting on a bench just before noon. He was totally wrapped in thought, and did not mind me sketching him. I snapped a few pics, too, and took it all back home to my studio to create the painting. His gaze and body language were so poignant and moving, and that is what I tried to capture.

Image size: 15 x 22 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 21 x 27 inches)

Availability: contact me for details

The sun seemed to fall just right on this man, with his hat and glasses casting shadows that added much interest to his face. I tried to capture the feeling of a brilliant sun and a pretty hot day.

Image size: 15 x 22 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 21 x 27 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

People at the racetrack intently analyze and commune with the racing form. It’s almost like religion. Observing their actions, and even their body language, provides many moments of inspiration for a portrait painter.

Image size: 11 x 15 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 16 x 20 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

This jockey’s expression epitomizes to me the engaged attitude of someone who loves to ride racehorses. As I painted his silks, his whole persona seemed to come alive.

Image size: 15 x 22 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 21 x 27 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

Seen watching the horses come home.

Image size: 15 x 22 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 21 x 27 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details

Another racetrack-inspired painting. Looked like the end of a long day for him!

Image size: 11 x 15 inches

Matted: yes (matted size 16 x 20 inches), in white

Availability: contact me for details