Sarah Miska, a 41-year-old artist, is finally pursuing art full-time after years of supporting herself and her family with odd jobs. Her latest exhibition, “Twist to strengthen,” at Lyles & King showcases her dramatic paintings of horse tails, manes, and riders. Miska’s work draws parallels between the competitive worlds of horseback riding and art, emphasizing the unpredictability and aspirational aspects of both fields.
Miska’s art reflects her childhood fantasy of being a horse diver and her love for horses, which she has translated into her work. She explores themes of control, competition, and aspiration in her paintings, capturing the tension and beauty of the human-animal dynamic. Miska’s compositions evoke the split-second before victory, mirroring the dreamer aspect of horseback riding and the art world.
The artist discusses the financial challenges and competitive nature of both the equestrian and art worlds, emphasizing the importance of finding trustworthy individuals in these industries. Miska’s work offers an escape and fantasy for viewers, inviting them to get lost in the beauty of horses and the untamable nature of the human-animal relationship. Despite the cultural fascination with horses, Miska remains critical yet appreciative of the world she is a part of, offering advice to young artists to work hard and dedicate time to their craft.
