Horsetails
Wimpys Little Chic
![[Picture]](images/art/_DSC6143.jpg)
Nicknamed Lexi, reining champion Wimpys Little Chic dominated competition beginning in 2007 with the Ariat Tulsa Reining Classic. She went on to win the National Reining Horse Association Futurity, the National Reining Breeders' Classic, and the NRHA Derby. Wimpys Little Chic, a bright and friendly palomino, made history as the first horse ever to win all of the latter three competitions, which together make-up the Reining "Triple Crown." After brief retirement, the mare returned to the reining pen in 2009 to win again, becoming the NRH's Leading All-Time Money Earning Horse. Wimpys Little Chic's tail hair has been generously donated by Michele and Shawn Flarida of Springfield, Ohio.
Sandra Oppegard
A graduate of the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, Sandra Oppegard worked for 23 years as a freelance illustrator for clients such as Max Factor, Giorgio, Mattel, and Baskin-Robbins. She became closely acquainted with the horse industry through her husband, a Thoroughbred trainer in California, and thus gained popularity in the racing industry for her watercolors that authentically and affectionately portray the world of horses and the people who love and take care of them. Her work has been exhibited on numerous occasions in Kentucky and New York. Oppegard's watercolor violin of Wimpys Little Chic depicts the mare performing two of the most exciting movements in the reining pattern, the spin and the sliding stop.
About the Project
Fifty-two artists from around the country have been chosen and each given small replicas of a violin and bow. Each artist has been assigned an unforgettable, beloved horse and has created a work of art. Artists have worked with paint, glass, metal, and other mediums. Their only charge was to embrace either the image or spirit of their horse. Horses include well-known Thoroughbreds, as well as other breeds represented in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.
Each piece will be on display at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™. During the Games, a silent auction will take place, with all proceeds go to the Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra’s Partners in Education, a program benefiting the children in high-risk areas of Kentucky through music education.
Please take the time to enjoy our art gallery (link to gallery), learn more about our special events (link to special events), and shop in our retail area for your very own HORSETAILS® 2010 merchandise. If you have questions about the project or would like more information, please contact us.
The Presentation
Each completed work of art is professionally mounted on linen mat board and framed in an antique black wooden slant-top shadow box. Framed by Lexington’s premiere sporting arts framer, the finished size measures 13.25" x 17".
