David Gardner has traveled a path that always defied convention. Now an octogenarian, he has mastered a new skill that celebrates his lifelong devotion to a truly magnificent breed of horse.
He shares this journey of discovery and achievements at the ARTS Encounters at Museo Benini Sunday, March 29, beginning at 1:30.
David and Marion Gardner have been fulltime residents of Horseshoe Bay for 28 years.
The upcoming event is a gathering of creative minds – artists, writers, and musicians and sharing their stories inspirations and talent an intimate setting. Everyone is welcome, reservations are requested, admission is free.
Call 830-693-2147 or email [email protected] m to RSVP.
Gardner has been an international champion equestrian, a well-published author, and falconer. Together, he and his wife Marion have sailed solo more than 70,000 miles. Before retiring in 2021, David was an award-winning Horseshoe Bay contractor and landowner.
At age 78 years, David began sculpting Egyptian Arabian horses. With his artwork revealing his intimate knowledge of this breed, it is now found in art collections in Europe, England, the U.S., and several of the royal families in the Middle East.
Marion Gardner, David’s wife of 62 years offers a perspective. “David is the oldest rookie sculptor in history. He has a wellearned reputation for being a trifle obsessive. I wake up every morning thinking ‘What’s next? Joining the circus?”
Gardner sculptures will be on exhibition for this presentation. Following a short social interlude, ARTS Encounters continues with 2-OG, the musical collaboration of Richard Steinberg and Randy Brown. The two Hill country transplants started playing together in 2012. Both are multiinstrumentalists and have crafted a repertoire that many call “the soundtrack of our lives.” Both Randy and Richard are life-long musicians and vow to be eternally connected to their craft.Reservations are requested for this exciting event.
Gardner grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, hardly the epicenter of the horse world.
“I was born with the horse-loving gene. All of my friends dreamed of playing for the Boston Red Sox, but I dreamed of a life with Arabian horses.
Remarking on the connection between Arabian horses and art, David said, “All desert creatures, including Salukis, gazelles, falcons, and Arabian horses share a uniquely slender elegance. They are among the most beautiful creatures in the world and have been the subjects of classical art for centuries. I am fortunate to relive that beauty through sculpting. I thank God for the gifts that He lent to me, including the most supportive wife imaginable, and Lexi, the best dog who ever walked the planet. Who could ask for more.”
