Jennifer Brandon, the talented painter and illustrator who did the covers for TSB’s CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED, is featured in the Fall 2014 issue of Equestrian Culture.
Artist Jennifer Brandon has a beautiful feature interview, including images of many of her vibrant paintings, in the Fall 2014 issue of Equestrian Culture magazine. Jen, a painter and talented illustrator, provided the cover art for the first two books in the Brookmeade Young Riders Series by Linda Snow McLoon. CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED share the tumultuous story of Sarah Wagner and her off-the-track Thoroughbred Crown Prince as they deal with the pressures of training together and competing in a world where fear and jealousy threaten to tear them apart.
Watch Jen Brandon’s creative talents in action on this short video:
Be sure to pick up a copy of the Fall Issue of Equestrian Culture magazine, available at Barnes & Noble stores nationwide, select tack shops, or online CLICK HERE.
You have a chance to meet Jen and author Linda Snow McLoon at the 2014 Equine Affaire in Springfield, Massachusetts, November 13-16. Find Jen’s Jache Studio booth #711 in the Better Living Center (and stop by the TSB booth #846/847 while you’re there!) and visit the Youth Pavilion in the Mallary South Building from 11-11:45 am on Friday to see Linda introduce a REAL LIVE off-the-track Thoroughbred and talk a little bit what it is like retraining one, and how that experience inspired her books. Linda will be signing books and answering questions after her presentation.
CROWN PRINCE by Linda Snow McLoon won for best book intended for elementary- and high-school age readers at the 56th Annual New England Book Show.
TSB is over-the-moon about CROWN PRINCE being named a winner at the 2013 New England Book Show in the category for books intended for readers in grades 1 through 12. Congratulations to author Linda Snow McLoon and artist Jennifer Brandon, who created the stunning cover image.
Linda Snow McLoon’s first two books from her all-new BROOKMEADE YOUNG RIDERS SERIES have been hailed for their authenticity of character and accuracy of equestrian detail. Here’s what the recently released review in the June issue of School Library Journal had to say about CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED:
Gr 5-8–Ever since she began riding, Sarah has dreamed of having a horse of her own. Through a number of fortuitous circumstances, she becomes the owner of a young thoroughbred on whom a race owner has given up. Her parents feel a great deal of trepidation about such a “green” horse, but Sarah’s trainer at Bookmeade farm promises to work closely to bring Crown Prince along. The first book details their journey as Crown Prince adapts to his new life as an event horse and Sarah takes on the responsibility of helping him achieve his potential. Most of the other riders at the facility are supportive, but a few mean girls go out of their way to create problems for Sarah. Their jealousy and bad behavior escalate in the second book as Sarah and Crown Prince prepare for and participate in their first three-day event. Their actions almost end in tragedy for Sarah and her talented horse, but they triumph in the end. Sarah is a believable character with a great work ethic and determination. Her friends all have their own issues but rally around when needed. These books are solid reads for children who enjoy good stories that are authentic in their presentation of the intricacies of dealing with horses and the day-to-day lives of young equestrians as they develop their skills to compete.– Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA
CROWN PRINCE by Linda Snow McLoon was displayed with the other winning entries at the New England Book Show in early May.
Equine Affaire will be held at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio, April 11 through April 14, 2013! Equine Affaire is legendary for its “horse-centric” educational programs, with clinics, seminars, and demonstrations that highlight a wide variety of equestrian sports, as well as offering instruction in horse training, management, and riding technique. Over the years Equine Affaire’s rosters of presenters have included Olympians; World and National Champion riders; popular equestrian TV personalities; course designers; judges; veterinarians; professors; and of course, MANY TSB authors, who come from all manner of backgrounds and areas of specialty, and countries all over the world.
Visit Sean Patrick, author of THE MODERN HORSEMAN’S COUNTDOWN TO BROKE, at the 2013 EA Ohio.
• Training Solutions for the Modern Horseman – Thursday 4/11 at 5:00: Youth Pavilion in the Celeste Center
• Trust on the Trail – Saturday 4/13 at 11:45: Rod’s Covered Paddock
• Speed Control in the Back Country – Saturday 4/13 at 4:00: Cooper Arena
• Confidence on the Trail – Sunday 4/14 at 12:15: Cooper Arena
• Creating the Ultimate Trail Horse – Sunday 4/14 at 3:15: Cooper Arena
After and between his clinics and presentations, Sean invites you back to his booth #1004 in the Bricker Building, to say “hello,” ask questions, purchase books or DVDs, and get them signed.
“I look forward to seeing everyone at my trail-riding clinics,” says Sean, “and I hope you stop by our booth to meet my wife Alisha, daughter Madilyn, and Wild Card mount, Joker—all of whom are making the trip north from Florida with me!”
Another TSB author, USEF Hunter/Jumper and Equitation Judge Geoff Teall, is presenting at the following times and locations:
• Honing Skills over Fences – Thursday 4/11 at 9:45: Coliseum Arena
TSB author Geoff Teall will give hunter/jumper/equitation clinics at EA Ohio.
“I always look forward to working at Equine Affaire,” says Geoff. “It is a great pleasure to work with so many illustrious clinicians, and in front of so many interested people, at one time. I truly believe it is a great experience for all concerned.”
In addition, the authors of the hit book KNOW YOU, KNOW YOUR HORSEEunice Rush and Marry Morrow will be at the Midwest Trail Ride and Outpost Store booth #1214 in the Bricker Building to talk to you about your personality and your horse’s…as well as how to find the “perfect equine match” and then train your horse as best suits his personality.
“Marry and I are really looking forward to Equine Affaire,” says Eunice. “I have attended for many years, and I find so many events that capture my interest—but Fantasia [a nightly musical performance that celebrates the horse] tops the list! Checking out all the new horse products [in the massive trade show] is my main focus for the daytime hours. I feel very privileged to participate this year and can’t wait to talk to people about our unique approach to human/horse relationships.”
Eunice Rush (left) and Marry Morrow (right), authors of KNOW YOU, KNOW YOUR HORSE.
“Attending Equine Affaire is always exciting,” adds Marry. “Being a trainer, I enjoy many of the presenters, but this year I am really looking forward to seeing Monet Phillips (Horse and Rider Biomechanics), Lisa Fry (Equine Reiki), and because I have never seen it, The International Jousting Association! Of course, spending time with our friends from Midwest Trail Riders is going to be part of the fun!”
CLICK IMAGE to see more of Equine Affaire featured artist Jennifer Brandon’s work!
Do you like the 2013 Equine Affaire artwork? We love it, and are exceptionally proud that his year’s featured artist is Jennifer Brandon, a wonderful and talented animal portrait artist and designer who created the cover art for the new young reader fiction books CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED. Be sure to check out more of her work online at jachestudio.com.
As horse people, there’s a lot we love about our new books for young horse lovers: CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED. We totally identify with author Linda Snow McLoon’s sense of time in a horse barn—the smells, sounds, and daily chores that make up horsekeeping and enthrall thousands of young people the world over. We appreciate her attention to “horsey details” often neglected by writers less in tune with what makes a real riding stable go ’round.
And of course, we LOVE the book covers! We are thrilled by artist Jennifer Brandon’s depictions of a young girl and the horse that owns her heart. In the course of her career, Jen has captured the the charm and personality of all kinds of animals—from beloved pets to working class farm animals to million-dollar racehorses. Oil on canvas is her medium, while artistic passion and an understanding of an animal’s personality bring her portraits to life.
We had a chance to talk to Jen about her painting process and ask her how she brings portraits to life. Check out this terrific video where she summarizes the creation of the cover art for CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED:
TSB: Can you tell us a little about how you became an artist specializing in animal portraiture, specifically dogs and horses?
Jen: Growing up as a farm girl amidst everything alive and beautiful, my love for horses, dogs, and all animals became a very integral part of who I am today. Now, it seems the more people I meet, the more I love horses, dogs, and all animals.
Seriously though, raising horses as a child and having a mom who is a masterful painter who always encouraged me to follow my dreams, pursuing my passion for painting and specializing in equestrian and pet portraits was pretty much a no-brainer.
TSB: Can you describe a little about your creative process and the techniques you use?
Jen: My medium of choice is oil paints, typically on canvas, linen, or board. I love taking still photos of horses I’ve seen in action and re-imagining them through active brushwork on the canvas. It is so much fun to spend late nights in the studio with Billy Joel (my go-to music for painting inspiration) blasting through the speakers. Dancing around with paintbrushes in one hand and a cup of strong coffee in the other, I allow paint to move from my brush to the canvas as the horse emerges from the white canvas.
It all starts with imagining the final image on that stark white canvas. Then I mix together my base color and carefully lay the foundation for the composition. Before I know it, bold fast strokes collaborate with careful meticulous strokes to create a sense of action and movement. I love contrasting colors and values to evoke a mood of drama, while more related subtle tones give tribute to a fond memory.
TSB: What is your experience illustrating print books and what do you like best about it?
Jen: I’m thankful to have had the privilege of illustrating several children’s books. I remember devouring illustrations as a child, page by page. Through bright watercolors and energetic line, I like to encourage creativity and the concept of thinking outside the box and drawing outside the lines. Of course it’s fun to develop the story board, and begin the painting process. But I love seeing the crayon drawings it inspires children to create.
TSB: How did you come up with the image of Sarah Wagner and Crown Prince for the new BROOKMEADE YOUNG RIDERS fiction series?
Jen: After reading about the moment with Sarah and Crown Prince in the barn, it sparked an image of the immediate connection between horse and girl—a concept that hits home for me.
TSB: Do your subjects, whether fictional or real, “come alive” for you as you paint them? How do you imagine Sarah and Crown Prince would be if you met them in real life?
Jen: More often than not my subjects “come alive” for me. Thankfully my dog is always in my studio with me, so I can always say I was just talking to him…and not my painting. I mean, who would ever talk to a painting?
I do, however, imagine Sarah being very similar to me and my best friends growing up. I feel we could all relate to her connection with Crown Prince. She seems like someone I would’ve enjoyed hanging out with.
TSB: Tell us about the first time you remember drawing or painting a horse.
Jen: If you look through all my sketch books from my childhood you’ll see a recurring theme…horses…horses…horses. I LOVED drawing horses. I cannot remember the very first time I drew a horse. But I can, however, remember the first commission I received to draw a horse. I was 9 years old. A sweet elderly woman from my church saw an opportunity to encourage a young girl and she paid me $75 to create a conté crayon drawing of a horse for her niece. I’d love to meet her again some day to thank her.
TSB: Do you still ride horses? If so, what do you like best about riding?
Artist Jennifer Brandon created the eye-catching covers for the new Brookmeade Young Riders Series by Linda Snow McLoon.
Jen: Unfortunately I haven’t ridden since high school. But I can tell you what I used to love most about riding was jumping on the back of my quarter horse and riding bareback and bitless and getting lost in the woods for hours on a breezy fall day with my best friends riding alongside me.
TSB: If you were trapped on a desert island with a horse (or a dog!) and a book, what breed of horse (or dog!) would it be and which book would you choose?
Jen: I would have to choose my good ole’ Great Dane. He’s my studio buddy, and only he knows just how goofy I can get while painting.
As far as a book goes, it would have to be Crown Prince Challenged, of course, as I haven’t been able to read the second one in the series yet!
TSB: What’s in your refrigerator at all times?
Jen: Butter and true maple syrup. Sometimes I think I could happily live off of those two ingredients. Romaine lettuce is also a staple.
TSB: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Jen: Perfect happiness….I’m not sure I can do the description justice. But it would definitely have to do with being tuned in to what Christ has in store for me, and living my life in a way that reflects his grace, creativity and love. Having a healthy family and friends. Enjoying painting outside on a beautiful fall day. Gardening barefoot. Or finally completing a rock climb that’s been spitting me off!
TSB: What is the quality you most like in a friend?
Jen: Honesty and the ability to laugh, and laugh, and laugh.
TSB:What is the quality you most like in a horse (or dog)?
Jen: I can be as goofy and ridiculous as I want and they will never tell!
TSB: What is your idea of the perfect meal?
Jen: Wild caught salmon grilled to perfection with maple syrup, a side of roasted root veggies, fresh salad greens and tomatoes from our garden with mozzarella cheese, and a side of yummy garlic bread. Completed with dessert, fresh berries and ice cream from a local farm and a good strong cup a’ jo.
TSB: What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
Jen: I was going to say it’s a tie between painting in Rockport Massachusetts, or climbing in Boulder, Colorado, but then I remembered Italy. Italy takes the cake!
TSB: If you could have a conversation with one famous person, alive or dead, who would it be?
We’re featuring Jen’s wonderful paintings and prints on the TSB blog in the month’s ahead. Click here for more information about Jen’s custom pet portraits.
Jen:Rien Poortvliet. I’ve found him to be one of the most inspiring painters and illustrators. Not bound to presuppositions or boxes of any sort. He obviously loved his animals and was a phenomenal painter.
TSB: What is your motto?
Jen: “. . . a piece of a beautiful moment.” Derived from a moment in Sienna, Italy, where a grandfather helped his little granddaughter learn how to ride a bike for the first time on the cobblestone streets. A moment when I happened to be a bystander, watching that precious time and relationship. These are the moments that bring a smile to my face. These are the moments that make up our lives. These are the moments I love to express through paint.
Learn more about Jennifer Brandon and her superb creative talent at www.jachestudio.com.
Trafalgar Square Books is thrilled to add three new books to its collection of titles specifically for young horse lovers!
HOW TO SPEAK HORSE by Andrea and Marcus Eschbach, the authors of RIDING FREE, explains basic concepts of natural horsemanship to six-to ten-year-olds. The book includes easy lessons in “horse speak,” demonstrating how horses communicate with the movement of their body, their expression, and the distance they close, maintain, or increase between them and an object or person of interest. This language is integral to understanding their behavior and how to train them—the ability to recognize fear, frustration, willingness, and happiness is important to a handler’s safety and success, on the ground and in the saddle.
HOW TO SPEAK HORSE is chock full of beautiful color photographs showing groundwork that is safe and fun for children, providing the perfect introduction to the keys to natural horsemanship and how good communication can keep you safe in everything you do with your horse.
Sample pages from HOW TO SPEAK HORSE by Andrea and Marcus Eschbach.
CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED are the first two books in the exciting new Brookmeade Young Riders Series by Linda Snow McLoon. Readers age 10 and up are sure to fall in love with Crown Prince, the racetrack rogue who finds a new home and a second chance with Sarah Wagner, a young girl who always dreamed of a horse of her own. Sarah and Crown Prince set off on all sorts of adventures, and the author’s ability to write convincingly about horses, riding, training, and competing harkens back to the glory days of quality equestrian fiction.
“I really enjoyed the characters, the story line, and the writing, and more than anything else, the horsemanship that is woven into Crown Prince and Crown Prince Challenged,” says Susan Harris, Centered Riding Senior Instructor, international clinician, and author of the US Pony Club Manuals of Horsemanship; Horse Gaits, Balance and Movement; Anatomy in Motion DVDs; and Grooming to Win. “I found the characters (especially Sarah Wagner), the horses, and the problems they face, believable and interesting, and the setting (a good boarding and teaching barn) authentic in today’s horse world, right down to the Jack Russell terriers. The reader will learn a lot about horses, good riding and horsemanship through these novels, but it’s part of the story, not a ‘lesson.’ I enjoyed the first book so much that I went right on to the second, and now I’m hoping the author is working on the next one! I highly recommend these books!”
“Get ready to fall in love with the story of Crown Prince and Sarah,” agrees Elizabeth Letts, author of the New York Times Bestseller The Eighty Dollar Champion. “Chock-a-block with accurate equestrian details, well-paced, and full of heart, the story of Sarah and her off-the-track one-dollar purchase is the story of how hard-work, determination and love for horses can make any young rider’s dream come true.”
We’ll be featuring Jennifer Brandon’s paintings and prints in the months ahead.
CROWN PRINCE and CROWN PRINCE CHALLENGED feature specially commissioned covers by the talented young equestrian and canine portrait artist Jennifer Brandon. Check out our profile about Jennifer by clicking HERE.
You can order all of our new books for young horse lovers at the TSB online bookstore, where shipping in the US is always FREE.
Trafalgar Square Books attends Frankfurt International Book Fair each October. We’ve never encountered Jenny, but w… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…TSB Tweeted 21 hours ago
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