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Capturing the stillness of the prairie and the power of a new beginning.
In the heart of a frozen landscape, two American bison stand quietly, their breath visible in the cold dawn air. A soft fog lingers behind them, while frost dusts their thick coats. The sun is just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow over a world otherwise hushed and cold. This moment—peaceful, strong, and reverent—inspired the creation of my pastel painting, Thankful for the Dawn.
This piece was especially meaningful to me. It came during a time when the world felt heavy and uncertain, and yet each new day still brought with it a sliver of hope. The reference photo for this work spoke to that exact feeling—quiet strength in the face of the unknown.
In December of 2019, Thankful for the Dawn was awarded 1st Place in the Dry Medium category during Round 3 of the Western Art Rodeo Association (WARA) World Finals. The recognition was an honor, but even more special to me was how deeply this piece seemed to resonate with others.
“Thankful for the Dawn” by Barby Schacher
About the Artwork
Title: Thankful for the Dawn
Medium: Pastel on Pastelbord
Size: 24″ x 36″ (unframed), 25 ½” x 29″ (framed)
Framed: Yes, framed as shown and ready to hang
Signed: By artist Barb Schacher
Reference photo used with permission
This original Western Art painting is a tribute to the resilience of the American buffalo and the quiet power of a winter sunrise in the rugged Rocky Mountains. It’s a piece I hope evokes both reverence and renewal.
Thanks for being part of this journey and for following my Western Art story, one pastel painting at a time.
Barby Schacher
Western Art with Heart & Heritage
