Originals

Solitary trees such as this cotton wood, always inspire and speak to me of timeless, ancient meaning. They have weathered through the storms of life as years come and go, from one generation to the next. They speak of strength, & endurance, in a world that is ever changing.

This piece was conceived two years ago when I was on a pack trip in the back country in western Colorado. We set up camp and two days later it dumped 15 inches of snow on us. We were camped here for two weeks. This humble little wall tent became my mountain home and a sweet welcome sight each evening. Traversing this country on foot in snow is not for the faint of heart. Clattering into camp exhausted at 11:00 one night with blisters on my feet I found some leftover fried… now dried, & dirty, potatoes left on the stove. I devoured them in two minutes and I still say to this day they were the best taters I ever had. Life in the wilderness is fragile and amazing. Mother Nature, & Creation, will teach you good life lessons. This work is all about solitude. Where we get acquainted with our own selves.

-Andy Mast

I met this young ram this summer in the Hardscrapple, area and simply could not resist to draw his expressive, goat eyes full of curiosity, and dominating, energy. The contrast of textures from his cute, soft, nose, to his battle scared face, clash with his hard curled horns, creating a regal elegance, that could not be ignored.  -Andy Mast

Peace in Solitude features a local “Father Figure” of mine. His experience as a wrangler, guide and pastor, made him a natural model for me to express the pure peace, and the quiet solitude that I experience in the valley! The back drop in this work is the view that I see every day from my bunkhouse window. Countless times I’ve stood at this very spot with my horse at the end of a long day and watched the sun sink in the west. Indeed, Peace in Solitude at its best.

"On Point" Jack's loyal adoration and reverance was unmatched. He was an inspirational individual, and a prime example for all of us. 

"Flowers for Mom." I relived my boyhood fantasies as I created this piece. It feels like a self portrait. Memories flooded my soul of galloping across wide open meadows and fields bareback & bridle-less on our family horse Molly. I can still feel my hands full of horse hair and the absolute freedom. I carved on wooden fences & trees, picked rocks, played in the creeks, and plucked "Flowers for Mom." How fortunate I am to have these blissful childhood memories.  -Andy Mast

"Wise & Noble" I wanted this portrait to be so simple, that its elegant. He is in his everyday clothes and you go straight to the soul of Jack.There are no distractions and there is nothing to hide. I did not want anything in the way of his wisdom, obedience, and spirit. If Jack, could talk he could share a lot of wisdom. -Andy Mast

On a calm, quiet, day, in wide open spaces, few words are spoken by these Loyal Companions. The mutual respect and gratitude among these three is not expressed in spoken words, but in the deeds they do, from grateful & solitary hearts.

My friend, a retired veterinarian, and his dog Jack, are real inspiring hands. Many are the foals & calves that have been delivered, by these kind hands, as were the many round-ups, in which these two made the best team. These Seasoned Hands, are a true testament of hard work and much love.

Not always do the best farm or ranch Partners carry the biggest wallet, but many times its our noble four legged companions that do not let us down and help us get the job done. This little drawing was a real joy to create.