Narrie Toole
"Narrie Toole knows two things deep in her heart and soul - ranching and painting. In 2004 the two became one when she began to create her colorful, vibrant, and compelling paintings full time. She had always lived on a ranch or farm and she had always painted, but it was then that everything ... more"Narrie Toole knows two things deep in her heart and soul - ranching and painting. In 2004 the two became one when she began to create her colorful, vibrant, and compelling paintings full time. She had always lived on a ranch or farm and she had always painted, but it was then that everything lined up, melded, and burst into an exciting new chapter for Toole. There is an authenticity and intimacy in the paintings that originates in her first-hand knowledge and experience of the life of a cowgirl who spent her days on a horse, on the range, and in the corral. The excitement of those days is captured with her loose impressionistic style, use of pure bright colors, and backgrounds that don't carry much detail but are thoughtfully and deliberately executed to help create mood and motion. Cattle and horses dominate her work, but she also paints exquisite Native American portraits. She owns and operates Estudio de la Montura and has sold her paintings to individuals and businesses nationally and internationally." Excerpts from the Fall 2009 Peaks & Plains Airline Magazine by writer Kay Bjork.
Art degree from Kansas State University, years of ranching, both yearlings and cow calf, have given me intimate knowledge of my subject material. I have always loved animals and have a deep affinity for them. I have been privileged to meet some incredibly interesting people and include them as subjects.
"Estudio de la Montura" was born in the Mimbres in southwest New Mexico. NM light and energy fuel my creativeness. The "West" is the theme for my contemporary impressionistic paintings.
As for my Native American paintings, "Toole" obviously is not...but there are significant parallels between the Native American and Irish history. In looking into the past for answers, remembering my Father's stories of the Dustbowl, exploring these faces from long ago - learning about their accomplishments, has driven me to discover ways to reveal that inner spirit. These paintings attempt to give pause and reflection. Inspiration often comes from my Apache friends and elders.
Landscapes reflect the same style and color. Even contemporary, more abstract pieces merge from this search, often based on childhood stories.
Color is a real passion for me. I like color...I have been deemed 'part magpie'. It is a key tool that I use to convey energy in my paintings.
Generous acquaintances, friends and of course art training, have helped me on my journey to be a fine art painter. I could not make it without them. Doors open constantly. It is a good trip.
The mysticism of the southwest claims me and my work more and more. Certainly not always serious but part of me nonetheless!
Narrie (pronounced NAR-ee) Toole grew up near Manter, KS and spent most of her life living on family farms and ranches in that area. Her many years spent working closely with horses, cattle, and myriad other "critters" shaped her life in a way that is clearly visible in her artwork today. While she no longer worries about calving in Winter or feeding the horses on Christmas morning, her livelihood still depends on those animals now, like it did then, as they inspire her life as a full-time painter in the Mimbres Valley of New Mexico.
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