What is the one thing that really stands out about a “western” painting. Everything else aside, just picture a man standing along the ridge looking down into the valley below. What is it about the man that says to you it’s a western painting. Of course, his clothing.
Clothing is probably one of the most obvious and defining characteristics when it comes to period recreation. Not only does it describe the person but it reflects the profession, culture, region, and social status as well.
Here at Artist Ride, I feel that the participating models have an amazing collection of wardrobe. Many models have spent a great deal of time studying particular historic characters and the materials, patterns, beads, etc, that goes into defining a person from 1800-1900.
And much like it was 100 years ago, you don’t just go to the store and pick out what you want. Material perhaps, but a ready-made coat or vest from 1879, probably not. In many cases if you want it you have to make. I’ve always admired the fact that the settlers and Indians made their own clothing or had it made to fit them.
I recently ventured into this area and attempted a bit of tailoring myself. I wanted a coat that fit me the way I wanted it to. So, I picked out the pattern that I liked and got some cotton and wool material. Now I’ve never so much as sewn a button on coat let alone built one so I wasn’t holding my breath when I began.
I soon found that running the old Singer wasn’t too bad although those needles are not very forgiving let me tell you. A few stiches here a few stiches there and slowly but surely I started to see the outline of my coat. When I got to the point where I could try it on one sleeve was an inch lower than the other and the middle of the coat didn’t match up. When I looked in the mirror it was like looking at a Picasso with strange angles and uneven edges needless to say it was back to the Singer.
Now in the fourth week I’m nearly done with my coat, just have a few buttons to put on. Through this experience I’ve gained a lot of respect for those who made their own clothing and those that do today. It’s not easy, but it is gratifying and it has helped me see a different side of what it takes to personify the past!
Shearer's Artist Ride 