Chariots
Chariots were not included in Gary Hess’s carousel acquisition, so he had two custom made. The front seat is affixed by a long, sturdy piano hinge and can fold up to accommodate patrons on wheels. I painted scenes from around Rockingham County on the sides.
A farming scene with Massanutten Mountain in the background. In the foreground, a Gary Hess-esque farmer harvests with his loyal dog (Pepper) riding along on the tractor with his Hereford beef cattle looking on curiously.
Photograph courtesy of Gail Napora. C2008
The obverse of the Virginia State Seal, motto (Sic Semper Tyrannis- Thus Always to Tyrants), and a ring of Virginia Creeper.
Photograph courtesy of Gail Napora. C2008
Read more about the obverse side’s symbolism by clicking here.
The reverse of the Virginia State Seal represents 3 Roman goddesses: Aeternitas, Libertas, and Ceres. The motto Perseverando- Persevering, a reminder to future generations of the need to persist in maintaining the blessings of liberty. I enjoyed discovering the existence of a reverse side of our Seal and that it featured three strong females. Read more about the symbolism by clicking here.
The outside of a chariot with a scene from Dayton- Mole Hill and the Silver Lake Mill.
Photograph courtesy of Gail Napora. C2008
Inside of Chariot- The Seven Bends of the Shenandoah River
Inside of Chariot featuring an imagined scene of wild turkeys, eagles, and the heron who live on the North Fork of the Shenandoah River which flows by Chimney Rock in Brocks Gap, near the artist’s home.