While recently talking to artist Paul Daniel Gold of Triple Crown Studio, what became apparent to me is that he truly loves his work. That’s a rare quality to find. He wouldn’t call what he does a ‘job’, simply because of the passion he has for his creations. It’s important to him that his clients fall in love with the pieces and have an emotional awakening as he does each time. . . .
“I’d like to be recognized as the photographer/artist who can be counted on to create a lasting tribute . . . a celebration of the bond and trust between horse and rider. I enjoy changing the way equestrians look at their photos and will not settle for anything less.” - Paul Daniel Gold
Olympian and Race Horse Trainer Michael Matz holding a portrait by Triple Crown Studio
Q: Where did you get your start and how long have you been an artist?
A: I would have to say 1985 during the National Fencing Championships was the launch date. I was capturing video of the fencers on my team and thought, if I could freeze frame of some images and use video special effects equipment to enhance the pictures, they would make a great gift idea or competition award.
Q: Have you worked with any well known names in the horse community that we would recognize?
A: I had the pleasure of meeting Michael Matz a few years ago when I captured an iconic image of Nicanor (Barbaro’s little brother) before his maiden race at Gulf Stream Park & Casino. 
When he returned to Florida many months later I presented him with the portrait and came away so impressed with not only what a kind gentleman he is, but how happy everybody was at his barn. I’ve also done work for Showjumping instructors, Frank Madden and Carl Bassette who own one of my digitally mastered watercolor paintings, created from photographs taken during their clinics.
Q: What materials/equipment do you work with and what makes your portraits special?
A: I use a Nikon camera, and import the images into my computer utilizing various digital painting techniques I have developed over the years. My most popular “look”, is what I refer to as the War Horse effect. I admire the way Steven Spielberg gives his motion pictures a warm, tonal quality that captures your imagination. In fact, that is how I conduct a photo session, as if I was filming a motion picture.
Q: Being a horseman yourself, do you think that it helps you capture particular moments on your canvas?
A: Absolutely! Before I start taking pictures I spend at least a half an hour getting to know the horse. The riders really appreciate the fact that I do not look at their horse as just a prop, and sense the passion I have for my craft. After a proper warm period, I pretty much know at what angle I am going to capture the action to create the effect that the horse is Pegasus reborn.
Q: If someone out-of-state wants a portrait made from a photo they own, what are the steps to get the ball rolling?
A: All they have to do is email me the very best quality possible. i.e. the same as the file they downloaded from their camera that was set at the highest resolution. 
Once I receive and approve the quality of the file, I will speak to my clients on the phone to discuss all the design options and finishes available. A museum quality fine art plaque is my favorite way to exhibit my creations because they can be hung directly out of the box and there is no need for expensive frames. There is more detailed information in my website at www.triplecrownstudio.com .
The portraits I create are one of a kind and will not be offered for sale to anyone other than the client. If they do not own the rights to the photograph I will require written permission to enhance the picture from the photographer that took the photograph.
Q: Do you work only with equine models and subject matter?
A: No, as a matter of fact I just recently created three fine art plaques for a client who wanted to pay tribute to her dog that recently passed away. What makes my portraits special is when I receive letters from the owners, knowing how happy they are:
Thank you, Paul, for doing such a beautiful job on this oil for my parents. It is just as beautiful as the other. Maggie was here in spirit with us. 
Losing her, my child, companion, and best friend, has left a canyon in my chest; and this first Christmas without her has been very emotional (no sweet face and gentle paws to beg for her own part of Christmas dinner). However, we have your beautiful oils to gaze at and smile at that sweet Cocker face and stare into her soulful eyes. God bless you, Paul!
I would say at least half of my commissions have to do with beloved companions that have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. It really does help me during the creative process to learn as much as I can about them.
Q: Has there been a particular portrait that meant a lot to you?
A: I would have to say three…”The Princess”, that was featured on CNN.com from 2006-09, to help raise awareness about retired racehorses that can lead productive lives after their racing days are over. The other ones are ” Friends Forever”, which shows the bond between this exercise rider and his favorite horse, and “Palm Meadows”, which shows the tranquility projected by these amazing athletes after they are done breezing.
Q: What is the average turn-around time for a portrait to be made?
A: Upon notification of payment via Paypal and approval of the image file the average turn-around is 3 to 4 weeks. I have shipped by artwork as far away as Australia.
Q: How can someone learn more about you and your work?
A: Visit my website at: www.triplecrownstudio.com triplecrownstudio@yahoo.com 305-305-1232
***When placing an order with Paul, tell him that you read this story off of Little Kentucky Farm web site, and he will donate 30% proceeds towards CANTER!***
