How much of your day/week is related to horses?
I spend about five hours a day, seven days a week with horses or in the barn, then from two to four hours a day painting or preparing to paint, and writing or preparing to write (about horses!)
What is it exactly that you do?
These days I have multiple income streams. I have my own horses plus I foster one for a racehorse aftercare group. I’m also an oil painter, doing both commissions and work for galleries of horses and other animals. And, as if that’s not enough, I write Equestrian Fiction set in the world of North American horse racing.
In this field of work, is it possible to be a full-time professional and earn a liveable income?
It’s definitely possible to earn a full-time income from any of those three jobs. When I still did racetrack layups and broodmare management, I made a full-time income from that which my artwork supplemented nicely. I started publishing about the time I stopped doing track layups and broodmares, and that income was able to replace my farm income. I like not having all my eggs in one basket, so to speak!
What are the general steps taken to be employed in such a role?
While it’s certainly possible these days to get a formal education in any of the areas I work, as an artist and author I’ve always been self-taught, and in the horse business, though there are more opportunities to be formally educated, hands-on experience still trumps a piece of paper.
Regardless of which route one takes, hard work and determination is key. I’ve spent hours painting, hours writing, and hours in the barn! I do like to supplement that experience with formal learning opportunities such as workshops, conferences and symposiums, which lets me focus on areas of particular interest to me.
Favourite horse memory?
That’s a hard question! I have so many. I have had a couple of tough rehab cases that come to mind, both of which had nothing to do with racing injuries.
One was a mare who was diagnosed with a significantly displaced fractured pelvis when brought to the local veterinary surgical clinic. The injury had happened on a layup farm, and she came to me afterward. It was touch and go for the first few weeks, but after four months of strict stall rest, then a long, careful rehab plan, she even went back to the races. She didn’t return to her earlier form so she was retired after two starts, but she went on to a riding horse home.
Future goals?
At this stage in my life, my only goal is to keep doing what I’m doing for as long as I can! The horses get me up in the morning and keep me moving (important with the injuries, aches and pains I’ve collected over the years!) and writing and painting keep my brain occupied. I would, however, like to check off a couple of big bucket list items. I’d love to make it to France for the Arc, go to the races anywhere for anything in the UK, and get to the Melbourne Cup!
Best thing about your sport/profession?
I’m never bored with my job. I get to help horses and make people happy with my artwork and books.
Be sure to check out Equus Education’s review of Bright, Broken Things by Linda Shantz whilst you’re here!
