Ruth Soller » Blog

This Lone Star Quilt in red, white and blue was pieced by my great-grandmother Laura Cline Chance for my father Lloyd Stephens. My grandmother Lela Mae Chance Stephens had it quilted by a group of ladies in her hometown Cornerville, Arkansas. This treasured heirloom was passed on to me by my father. The beautifully hand-carved leather western saddle belonged to my riding instructor Corinne Schindler who manages Acres of Opportunity Ranch for rescued horses in Lafayette, Colorado.

I love the idea of combining these symbols of American patriotism with the legendary cowboy of the American West. This is one of my most realistic paintings to date as I spent a lot of time and care in modeling the diamond pieces of the quilt and the carved and stitched leather of the saddle. I'm very pleased with the result and hope that you enjoy the painting.