Dear Reader,

Some paintings begin with a reference while others begin with a person.

Holding the Line

Two of my paintings—Holding the Line and Grace in the Reins—began with women I will never forget.

They are part of my collection in the main gallery at Cowgirl Up! this year, and they carry a different kind of weight… not just in subject, but in story.

The inspiration came from my time working alongside two remarkable women during the Women’s Work exhibition.

Women who lead.
Who carry responsibility without asking for recognition.
Who hold their ground—quietly, steadily, without hesitation.

Holding the Line speaks to that strength.

There’s a moment in it that feels almost suspended—where control, tension, and trust all exist at once. It’s not loud strength. It’s the kind that holds.

The kind that doesn’t break.

Grace in the Reins

Grace in the Reins moves differently.

There’s confidence here, but also ease. A sense of partnership between rider and horse… of experience that has been earned, not given.

Together, these paintings reflect two sides of the same truth:

Strength doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. And leadership doesn’t need to announce itself.

Being able to share these works at Cowgirl Up makes them even more meaningful.

Because this show isn’t just about beautiful work.
It’s about honoring the stories and voices shaping the West today.

For collectors, these pieces represent more than a moment—they represent a narrative I believe will continue to deepen over time.

Both Holding the Line and Grace in the Reins are currently available through the exhibition.

If one of these speaks to you, I would love to help you secure it before opening weekend.

This body of work feels especially close to me.

And these two… feel like anchors within it.

With Grit and Grace,

Leslie

P.S. If you’d like more details for either piece, just reply to this email and I’ll send everything your way.