ICEE 2019

While she was here, Bobbie asked me if I was going to take part in this year's ICEE (International Customizing Equine Event). 

ICEE is one of the many spin-off events inspired by NaMoPaiMo. Participants are challenged to customize a model horse during the months of October and November. I am a member of the ICEE Facebook page, but I hadn't given it much thought until Bobbie brought it up.

"Maybe?" I told her. "I kind of want to, but I don't know what I'd do. I don't need another big project right now."

A few days later, I looked at the pair of leftover TJS Performance Challenge mystery mares trotting across my desk and had a thought. Just like that, I knew what I wanted to do. I logged onto Facebook and signed up for ICEE.

Here is my artist statement: I plan to take this Breyer and make her more performance friendly. I will remove and replace the mane and forelock, tuck the head, twitch an ear and make her free-standing without the coin.

And here is my victim.

I hate this forelock so much.

This morning, I dremeled off my mare's mane and forelock.

So much better already.

Then I slit her throat, heated her poll with a heat gun and tucked her head.

I also cut, heated and twisted her right ear into this position.

At this point, I am pleased with my first day's work. It's tempting to push ahead and start adding epoxy, but I think I'll wait until at least tomorrow. I've learned the hard way that it's always best to evaluate my work with fresh eyes before I make it more permanent.

Thanks for the push, Bobbie. I think I'm going to enjoy this year's ICEE!