Domestic Icelandic Sheep and Goats

Yesterday I drew this Icelandic Ram, and after researching and drawing Sheep I have come to realize each animal can become extinct from benign neglect.  These animals are what is called heritage breeds, and there are not very many of them left.  Small farms now breed and raise them for their wool, tender meat, and the natural color diversity of their coats.  There is so much hard work done every single day by farmers to not only provide the rest of the world with food, but to contribute wool for carding, spinning, weaving and dyeing.  The help and cooperation I see in farm communities, and the joyful comraderie I read on their blogs is not only interesting and informative, but spiritually uplifting.  Thank you God for all the farms big and small, and for all the animals they feed, cultivate, care for and protect.  Praises to these hard working people and the beautiful animals they preserve.  Write if any of us get work, and let my know how your economy is doing.  This Ram was drawn with prismacolor pencils on Strathmore Black Artagain paper.  Have a good day!