The horse has been a muse to man for as long as the two species have been in contact. The depiction of horses in art predates not only recorded art history, in fact, but also written language.
Some things never change. Artists continue today to paint, sculpt or carve the emblematic animals – using them to convey power and grace, spirit and freedom and the Western way of life.
Sorrel Sky Gallery is celebrating this age-old tradition with a group show that will open Thursday. “The Power of the Horse” will feature sculptures, paintings, giclées and more that celebrate the iconic animal.
The gallery has long exhibited horse art, and its name – Sorrel – is inspired by the rich chestnut that is one of the most common coat colors in horses. And while it doesn’t often organize group shows, gallery owner Shanan Campbell Wells said, with 2014 being The Year of the Horse in the Chinese calendar, it seemed like the perfect opportunity.
“There’s something just so magical about horses, more so than any other animal, I think,” she said. “People from all walks of life have connections to horses.”
“The Power of the Horse” will feature 12 artists covering all mediums. Among other things, the show will include:
The big, vibrant paintings of Carrie Fell, which depict cowboys on horseback in technicolor tones.
Star Liana York’s playful and kinetic horse sculptures, which were inspired by ancient rock art in France.
The bronze work of working cowboy, rancher, horse trainer and sculptor Greg Kelsey.
Ben Nighthorse’s silver horse pendants, which feature precious and semi-precious gems.
Crow Nation artist Kevin Red Star’s large acrylic painting of warrior ponies in golds, blues and browns as well as dappled patterns.
And Sorrel Sky is thrilled to bring to Durango the work of Santa Fe artist Billy Schenck, who is one of the best-known figures in Western pop-art. His cinematic paintings, which harken to old Hollywood, are romantic, vivid and filled with myth.
“This guy is just a phenomenon,” Campbell Wells said.
Campbell Wells said there are quality about horses that people can connect to on a many levels. This show celebrates that.
“Horses represent so many different things to so many people,” she said. “They are so accessible.”
Schenck, York and Nighthorse will attend the opening.
kklingsporn@durangoherald.com
If you go
“Power of the Horse,” a group art show, will open with a reception from 5-8 p.m. Thursday at Sorrel Sky Gallery, 828 Main Ave., during this month’s First Thursdays Art Walk.
