Big Whiff by Erica Dawn Smith

Big Whiff
Erica Dawn Smith
Acrylic on canvas
14”h x 11”w x .25”d - framed
2024

Horses love a good sunflower snack--and they usually stop to sniff before they take a bite!  When those velvet-soft nostrils flare and that curious snout comes towards me, I know I'm in the presence of one happy pony.  A playful close-up capturing the joy and charm of that moment, this piece blends humor and equine mischief against a bright country backdrop.

Get to Know the Austin Artist:
My work is a celebration of the beauty, humor, and quiet wonder of country life.  My background in scenic painting trained me to capture atmosphere, texture, and storytelling on a grand scale. Now, in my garden studio on a Blanco ranch, I bring that same passion to personal moments—golden pastures, curious animals, and ever-changing skies.
My process begins with observation—walking the land, soaking in the light, and capturing photographs of everyday moments that inspire me. These snapshots from my life become the foundation for my paintings, helping me translate real experiences into art. Using acrylics, I build up soft layers of color to create depth and emotion, whether it’s the warmth of a sunlit field or the personality of a mischievous horse.
Through this work, I hope viewers experience the joy, peace, and connection that rural life brings me daily. May these paintings remind you to slow down, notice the details, and find beauty in the everyday.