Brutal round ups of wild horses on our public lands continue to happen and at a crazy pace. Right now 700+ horses are being removed from Sand Wash Basin in Colorado and next month Wyoming is the target. Ugly is an understatement and our hearts break for these creatures.
This is "Pale Rider", a wild stallion from the Onaqui range in Utah. This Cremello wild horse was rounded up last August along with another 300+ Onaqui horses. Fortunately, Pale Rider was one of the 100+ lucky ones to return to the range about a month later and now roams free again.
Some things are too beautiful to put into words - the raw beauty of a Cremello wild stallion, rugged and dirty, yet perfect; his blowing mane, a display of freedom in the place he belongs; his stunning and alert eye, a trait survivors of the wild share. A picture is definitely worth a thousand words...
Trying to find beauty in hardship is difficult, but it's what gives us hope. I can't put into words the beauty of people coming together to help these American mustangs. Some give money, some give time, some make calls and write letters. Others spread the word that something needs to be done before our wild horses will be no more.
It all helps. It all serves a purpose.
And ART has a purpose so I am thankful and grateful for having your support to continue on my journey of photographing these incredible wild horses.
With Gratitude,
Maria
An equestrian for most of her life, Maria combines her passion for horses with her art and the desire to bring public awareness to the American wild horses. Maria Marriott Photography is a proud supporter of several non-profit organizations that tirelessly work to ensure the well-being of the American mustangs.