The Art of Donna Howell-Sickles

The first time I saw her work was in a “Cowboys and Indians” magazine. I was instantly drawn to her unique style of printing and her bright colors. Of course, the subject matter was also appealing!

I went to the internet for more information and for more of these fabulous works of art! I found a vast quantity of work and absolutely love the spirit and movement she portrays in each image she creates. You can sense an air of excitement and joy in each one!

In an interview, Sickles stated: “My fascination with the cowgirl image began in my last year of college. I received an old postcard from a friend in a typical art student trade. He brought over a large box of stuff including some of his own pottery.  Near the bottom of the box were several old postcards, one of a cowgirl c. 1935 seated on a horse captioned “Greetings from a Real Cowgirl from the Ole Southwest”.  The image spoke to me and I had no idea why.  Although I had grown up on a farming ranching operation in Texas we never really thought of ourselves as Western.  I surrendered to the attraction and as I used the Cowgirl in my art and I slowly filled in the blanks about my fascination with the imagery.” ~Donna Howell Sickles

 

 

Her first hand experience surely equipped her with the knowledge she needed to portray this lifestyle in an accurate and original way. I love the way she mixes the drawn lines with paint and creates dynamic scenes with such vibrancy. If you’re interested in purchasing her work, she still holds exhibitions around the country! Check out HER WEBSITE for more information.