The influence of one animal—the horse—has had quite a substantial grip over the human race, reaching far back in time and history, and continuing to prevail today. How do we know this? Because artists have depicted horses in many different mediums and in many different ways across centuries, with entire exhibitions, shows and events centered around the ever-popular subject matter. Opening June 6 is one such show known as Hold Your Horses! Show & Sale at the Phippen Museum in Prescott, Arizona.
Molly Mellinger, Packing Santa Barbara, oil on canvas, 14 x 18 in.
Curator Jeannette Holverson adds that, “over time, the relationship between humans and horses has undergone significant transformations, influencing both species in profound ways. Humans have selectively bred horses to enhance their speed, strength, size and stature. Yet, horses have also had a transformative impact on humanity. Our methods of transportation, trade, recreation, labor and even warfare have all been impacted by our partnership with these magnificent creatures. Arguably, horses have played a pivotal role in shaping the course of human civilization unlike any other animal.”
This year’s showcase, continuing the museum tradition of paying tribute to the animal, will see around 100 works by 39 artists. “Collectors can expect to find traditional and contemporary art by some of the best Western artists who focus on equine art,” notes Holverson. “The exhibit allows for mediums in oil, acrylic, sculpture, watercolor and photography.”
Marlin Rotach, Visions on the High Desert, watercolor, 16 x 20 in.
The show also honors last year’s People’s Choice Award winner, Julie Nighswonger, for her piece The Grey in Blue. She is this year’s 2024 featured artist. “Nighswonger’s art exemplifies life in the West in a way that captures the beauty of her surroundings,” says Holverson. “In a style that she describes as impressionistic realism, she captures moments that are all too often taken for granted. Her work explores nature, animals and the West.”
“Certain things catch my eye,” Nighswonger says. “It’s the crisp, early morning light, the warm glow of the evening or the way the light dances off of a horse’s mane.” Nighswonger features new works for the show like the quiet yet powerful Be Still & Know and The Drive Home—another peaceful scene involving a figure on horseback, herding cattle across a prairie landscape.
Al Glann, A Second Look, bronze, 15 x 12 x 7 in.
Additional show artists, such as Marlin Rotach, shares, “It is magical how fate joins us, and then how this enigmatic emotion seasons our lives with substance. It has been my good fortune to have witnessed such a true-life Western romance. It is the subject of my new watercolor titled Vision on the High Desert. These were co-working horse wranglers for the Red Cliffs Ranch in Utah. They developed a strong friendship, which in time, blossomed…They were in love! Time passed, they married and have now started a family—both still loving and wrangling…My intent in this watercolor was to capture that transcendent moment when both realized they were meant to be.”
For Molly Mellinger,her artwork has always been a vehicle to study and celebrate the horse and the rich traditions that surround them. “I am deeply inspired by traditional bridle horses and their gear, which are often exclusively handcrafted by artisans that are entrenched in the culture,” she says. “As a painter, I have developed my own deep appreciation for the slow intentionality of creating the hand (human) made. That sort of immersion of self and creation is awe inspiring.”
Julie Nighswonger, Be Still & Know, oil, 30 x 24 in.
Prior to the show opening is the opening reception and members preview, scheduled for July 5 at 5:30 p.m. Museum members are admitted free of charge and guests will be charged $20 at the door. A cash bar and hors d’oeuvres will also be available. As a special bonus, the museum will hold a day of ‘Horsing Around’ on Saturday, July 6, beginning at 10 a.m., with a free youth art project and a special presentation by author and historian Alan Rockman at 1 p.m. —
Hold Your Horses! Show & Sale
July 6-September 29, 2024
Phippen Museum
4701 Highway 89 North, Prescott, AZ 86301
(928) 778-1385, www.phippenartmuseum.org
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