Every painting has a story, and Are We There Yet? is one of my favourites to tell.
The Story Behind the Art
A colleague of mine ran a donkey sanctuary, and over the years he shared endless tales of the donkeys' individual personalities — because yes, donkeys absolutely have personalities, and very distinct ones at that.
One young donkey in particular was a force of nature. Impatient, eager, and always in a hurry, he'd rush around the sanctuary with boundless energy — completely unbothered by the effect his enthusiasm had on the elder donkeys, who bore it all with weary, long-suffering dignity. You could almost hear them sighing.
It struck me as so wonderfully, recognisably human. We've all met that person — the one who's always three steps ahead, tapping their foot while the rest of us are still finding our coats.
From Story to Painting
I knew I had to paint it. The title came immediately — Are We There Yet? — that universal cry of impatience that needs no explanation. I wanted to capture that sense of barely contained energy, the comedy of the moment, and the gentle exasperation of the elder donkeys who had seen it all before.
Painted in watercolour and ink, the piece has a loose, playful quality that felt right for the subject — nothing too serious, everything a little bit joyful.
Original and Print Available
Are We There Yet? is available as an original watercolour and ink painting, as well as a framed fine art print for those who'd like to bring a little donkey energy into their home at a more accessible price. Either way, I guarantee it'll make you smile every time you walk past it.