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The Heartfelt Journey: Why I Paint Portraits of Rescue Horses
Stories and custom artwork inspired by rescued horses and animals, painted in oil to support horse, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Renee Dumont
8/1/20254 min read
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Why I Paint Horses: A Journey of Joy, Healing, and Purpose
Today I want to share the reason I started painting portraits of horses—to support horse rescues and sanctuaries. For me, painting has always been about more than just creating something beautiful. It’s about painting with purpose. That purpose became clear back in 2006, when I rescued my first husky. From that moment, my heart was drawn to the people who pour their time, love, and resources into saving animals—people who offer healing to creatures that, in return, bring healing to us.
For over a decade, I’ve battled a serious illness, and during those long seasons of pain—often bedridden—there was one thing that always lifted my spirit: animals. Just watching them, seeing their innocence, their affection, their pure joy, would bring comfort like nothing else. One Bible verse that has carried me through is:
“The joy of the Lord is my strength.”
And I’ve come to see animals as one of the ways God brings that joy to us. They ask for so little and give so much.
Horses especially have captured my heart. They are majestic and powerful—yet if you look into their eyes, you’ll see gentleness, trust, and emotion. They bond deeply with their caretakers, forming relationships built on trust and love. To ride or care for a horse is to witness a sacred connection between two beings. It’s something I find absolutely awe-inspiring.
I’ll never forget my first visit to an animal sanctuary. I saw two bears in a pool, playing, splashing, and holding onto each other with such joy and affection—it brought tears to my eyes. It wasn’t just cute or entertaining—it was holy. It reminded me again:
“The joy of the Lord is my strength.”
That experience—and many others since—have shown me that sanctuaries are more than shelters. They are ministries of love. The people who build and run them take great emotional and financial risks, but their work is a blessing to both animals and the humans who connect with them. They give these animals a new life, and the animals, in turn, give us life. They are vessels of hope.
That’s why I started painting horses. Each brushstroke is a prayer—a prayer of gratitude, a prayer for peace, a prayer for the people who make sanctuary possible. Through my art, I hope to support these sanctuaries in a tangible way.
So I ask you from the heart:
Would you consider being part of this vessel of joy?
By purchasing a print, commissioning a portrait, or buying an original painting, you’re not just decorating your walls—you’re helping to provide food, care, and shelter for these beautiful animals. You’re supporting the people who give their lives to love them. You’re keeping that circle of healing and joy alive.
And my prayer is that every time you look at one of these painted horses—gazing back at you with gentle eyes—you’ll feel something deeper: the beauty of their soul, and the peace that only comes from love.
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Understanding the Beauty of Rescue Horses
Rescue horses embody resilience and strength, often overcoming tremendous hardships. Their stories, however, frequently go unheard. By choosing to paint portraits of these magnificent animals, I aim to give voice to their experiences and illuminate the importance of equine rescue efforts. Each brush stroke becomes a tribute, a prayer of gratitude to their uniqueness, capturing the essence that lies within these animals.
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Supporting Sanctuaries: A Shared Commitment
My passion for painting portraits of rescue horses aligns closely with my desire to support sanctuaries dedicated to their rehabilitation. These sanctuaries play a crucial role in providing safe havens for horses that have suffered abuse or neglect. Through my artwork, I strive to raise awareness and funds for these vital organizations. Each sale of a portrait contributes to the upkeep and care of these horses, ensuring they receive the treatment and love they so deeply deserve.
The Impact of Art on Awareness
Art has the remarkable ability to evoke emotions and inspire action. By painting portraits of rescue horses, I hope to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges they face and the importance of rescuing and rehabilitating them. Each painting tells a story, encouraging viewers to think critically about equine welfare and the humane treatment of animals. Through exhibitions and online displays, I share these narratives, compelling audiences to connect with the plight of rescue horses and consider supporting their local sanctuaries.
Through my journey as an artist, I have found an avenue to contribute positively to the lives of these remarkable creatures. By combining my love for painting with advocacy, I aim to not only celebrate the beauty of rescue horses but also to motivate others to participate in this noble cause. Whether it’s through spreading awareness, adopting, or supporting local sanctuaries, each effort holds the power to change lives. Let us continue to shed light on the importance of rescuing these incredible animals and supporting the sanctuaries that strive to protect them.