~AinslieG Artistry~

Looking back on it now, I believe it was inevitable that I would become an artist; my strong and unwavering passion for horses and all animals and a love of creativity. With the two combined at an early age; it had begun.

I would have to say though that the 'defining moment' for me was my meeting the Arabian horse at age 12. I had been around horses since literally a baby, but there was no comparison. It is through my eyes -an artist's eye- that I see the Arabian just as is; raw, impossibly beautiful and a spirit like none that I had encountered before; animal or human. As a young child I did not know what I do now, (at almost 30 years of age) that this spirit that I was drawn to was possibly my own too. When creativity and spirituality meet; surely it must be destiny? It was not until early 1995, at age 14, that I met a person who was to change my life forever and firmly inbed in my mind, heart and soul the artist within and the path I am meant to follow through this life of mine. We are now life-long friends.

Under her guidance, help, support and encouragement, I began to really see and feel what this art was all about; it is not just marks on paper or a 'pretty picture'. That is not me. I put my whole self into what I love and believe in, and so it should be no different with my art. In every work that I create, I give it my all and in doing so; hopefully leave a piece of me -my soul- within my artistry.

Through my own belief of knowing every inch of my beloved subject matter; I have always strived for correct anatomy, but I want my style as an artist to shine through; for you to see that this is my own work; unique, expressive and oh-so personal. 

"A piece of art is a reflection of whom created it" - A.Gilles

I refer to my art as "interpretations"; as although I always use a reference photo, I never want to slavishly copy it, but rather use my eye, knowledge, senses and soul to imbue each artwork I create, whether it be for myself, a client, art show or a five mintue sketch; it is my own; my work; my creativity and it will continue on long after I have gone and my name forgotten. 

So for me, the Arabian horse is inspiration, but I find solace and companionship with them also. Their history is deep and varied; their natural beauty and charisma enchanting and awe-inspiring; their love for and need of human interaction is unyielding. It is simply their whole self that drew me in, all those years ago now and that has kept me in- almost like a trance or mystical spell! They are not possessions or for some man's wealth or greed, but rather as man's trusty steed and certainly their best friend. For an artist; they are a dream!

With me; all animals, nature and life ingeneral, is precious. We must respect and care for all; love and not be ignornat in our lives we live. My devotion, (most say obsession!) with the Arabian horse is natural- I can't help it- but I do have room in my heart for other breeds of horses and all animals -I can't help it, it's ingrained in me. I have dedicated my life to my artistry and to being the best person I can be.

I have a constant need to create everyday and I feel incomplete without picking up my pencils, pastels or whatever I choose to create with. I know within that, as much as I love creating for others to enjoy; it is for myself and the Arabian horse that I have to create every day.

What does the future hold? One certain thing is; you will always find me sitting at my desk, drawing the one thing that will never waver; the Arabian horse...

I thank you for taking the time to visit my website and view my art. I welcome all enquiries and people wishing to connect and share my passions.

- Ainslie Gilles -

"Art washes from the soul, the dust of everyday life" -Picasso