Virginia equine artist Kristen Queen has teamed up with Pennsylvania author Jessica James to bring an equine character in a Civil War novel to life.
Queen’s piece of artwork entitled “Friesian Study” was chosen to depict “Justus,” a large-boned, black horse owned by the lead character in James’ book Shades of Gray: A Novel of the Civil War in Virginia.
"Shades of Gray is one of the most enchanting, engrossing books I have ever read, so of course I am honored to be a part of it,” Queen said.
A lifelong horse lover, owner and equestrian enthusiast, Queen is rapidly gaining notoriety for her depiction of horses of many disciplines and breeds in pastel. Combining her love for horses with her talent and skills for artistic mediums, she has found her true passion. Though she has worked in graphite, charcoal, acrylic and oil paints, she has been working consistently in pastels since 2006, and now considers that medium her general preference.
The Virginia native is a participating artist in the Mural Mosaic production entitled Le Cadeau Du Cheval “The Horse Gift” mural due out in the fall of 2008, and will be participating in the Virginia Equine Artists Association “Celebrating the Horse of Virginia” show this fall.
Shades of Gray is an epic love story that chronicles the clash of a Confederate cavalry commander with a Union spy as they defend their beliefs, their country, and their honor. It has been receiving rave reviews from Civil War authors and historians, as well as lovers of romance and historical fiction since its release in January by Patriot Press.
