Judy Widener has been creating art since she was five years old, her brushes crafting images that feel alive. Her work reflects a life steeped in experience, capturing the essence of animals and people with equal care and passion.
Her artistic range is broad and dynamic. From equine portraits full of grace to playful depictions of children, from lush tropical vistas to abstract explorations of emotion, Widener’s art is a journey through the vibrant complexities of life. She avoids being boxed into one style, letting her creativity flow freely to tell unique stories.
“The Golden Boys” is a striking 3-by-4-foot oil painting featuring three cloned brothers who share a remarkable origin. Owned by Grand Prix dressage rider Charlotte Jorst, these horses are clones of her celebrated horse, Nintendo. Now retired after a stellar career, Nintendo’s influence can still be seen in these almost mirror-like descendants.
At first glance, the trio looks nearly identical, their coats mirroring Nintendo’s distinct patterns. Yet subtle differences emerge when you take a closer look—small variations in their markings hint at individuality. Widener’s work skillfully captures these details, making the painting as much about their shared heritage as their unique identities.
Widener’s use of oils is thoughtful and precise. Her interplay of light and shadow lends the painting depth, and the horses seem almost ready to move. Each stroke reflects their personalities and celebrates their connection to one another, merging scientific innovation with natural beauty.
The story of these clones elevates the painting beyond a simple depiction of animals. It’s a reflection on the evolving relationship between humans and nature, and Widener’s thoughtful approach ensures the painting resonates on multiple levels.
In “Circus,” Widener turns her attention to the untamed beauty of the wild. This piece portrays a magnificent wild stallion named Circus, whose bold markings and proud demeanor made him a standout. Though he passed away years ago, his spirit continues through his offspring, and Widener sought to immortalize his striking presence on canvas.
Drawing inspiration from a photograph by Jeanne Tessier, known for capturing wild horses, Widener infuses the painting with life and emotion. The stallion’s markings are meticulously recreated, emphasizing his distinctiveness. Widener’s brushwork brings out his regal posture, allowing the viewer to feel his presence.
The painting’s earthy tones ground the stallion in his natural habitat, while the softness of her strokes creates an almost dreamlike quality. Circus’s gaze draws you in, exuding strength and dignity. This is more than a portrait; it’s a tribute to the wild horses that symbolize freedom and resilience.
Widener’s work on “Circus” serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human appreciation and the preservation of the natural world. It captures not just a horse but the untamed spirit he represents.
An Artist’s Voice
“The Golden Boys” and “Circus” highlight Judy Widener’s ability to bring animals to life through art. Her deep connection to her subjects shines in every detail, whether it’s the refined beauty of dressage horses or the raw elegance of a wild stallion.
Widener’s paintings go beyond skillful technique; they invite the viewer to connect emotionally. Her work bridges the gap between art and nature, reminding us of the stories animals carry and the connection between humans and the creatures we admire.
Each piece is a journey—a blend of memory, observation, and creativity that speaks to Widener’s dedication to her craft. Through her art, she offers a window into lives and worlds we might otherwise overlook, and her passion ensures those stories endure.
