As we look back on 2008, we all agree that it really was quite a year. This was a year filled with unprecedented challenges in so many ways and yet, The Trail of Painted Ponies has remained a bright spot in the world of art and collectibles. It seems that these miniature works of art have become even more important to family and friends. This year more than ever, The Trail of Painted Ponies have comforted and connected collectors across the country and around the world.

And so it was a year that made all of us take a look at our lives and what really matters most. Surprisingly, it is the little things that we treasure...little things that speak to us and have true meaning. Beautiful things that we love, that whisper to us from our collections inside our homes. Cultivating a love of art and collecting and sharing that love with those we cherish brings immeasurable pleasure. This appreciation for art becomes a way of life that greatly enhances the character of our lives. It seems that everywhere, people are taking comfort in their collections and the joy that they bring.

This notion of the importance of art has been around for thousands of years and many books are devoted to this important subject. One of them, written by WJ Loftie and published in 1876 is titled “A Plea for Art in the House.” This charming little book made a plea for everyone to recognize the importance of art and decoration at home. “I hope that I have succeeded in showing the advantages of cultivating a love of art, especially art in the family and household” proclaimed Mr. Loftie. He encouraged people to learn about art objects in order to appreciate them and then begin to decorate with them and share their beauty and stories with others.

It has been over 130 years since those words were written and they are as relevant today as they ever were. We thank you Mr. Loftie for your words of wisdom and we couldn’t agree more. Art is enriching. Collections are comforting. Beauty is inspiring. And in the end, they are essential to our lives and our well being.

As we begin this New Year, we would like to recognize the importance of art in our homes and we are thankful for the joys that come with collecting and sharing collections with those who are near and dear to us. We would like to thank everyone for appreciating the wonder and magic of The Trail of Painted Ponies. We would also like to take a moment to look back at a very memorable year...from special events and competitions to publishing and philanthropy, The Trail of Painted Ponies has blazed a trail of creativity and compassion across the country and around the world. We wish everyone a very happy and healthy New Year filled with beauty! Happy New Year and Happy Trails, The Trail of Painted Ponies