Capturing Resilience: Richard Rodriguez Explores the Beauty of Rescued Horses Through Modern Art

In the picturesque landscape of Colorado, Richard Rodriguez embarks on a heartfelt artistic journey that combines his passion for horses with a commitment to capturing the essence of rescued horses that have suffered traumas.

An accomplished architect, Richard Rodriguez made the bold decision to follow his heart to become a full-time artist after after completing an enriching program at the Art Students League of Denver. His background in architecture gives him a distinctive viewpoint on form, space, and structure, which he now channels into his art. Employing brushes, palette knives, scrapers, and squeegees with oil paints, Richard crafts abstract shapes blended with realism on canvas or hardwood panels.

"In my paintings, I navigate the space between memories and dreams. Lines within the artworks represent the creases found in vintage photographs."

Richard contends, "Horses have often carried symbolic weight representing power, speed, strength, and even freedom. Yet in modern art they’ve appeared less frequently." For him it is essential to revitalize the portrayal of horses, especially within the context of equine fine art. By showcasing their grace and strength, he hopes to remind viewers of these creatures' longstanding significance and the stories they tell.

"IN BALANCE" 36 x 48 OIL BY RICHARD RODRIGUEZ

At the Phippen Museum's 51st Annual Western Art Show and Sale, Richard Rodriguez was honored to be awarded the George Phippen Memorial Foundation Award for his 36 x 48 oil painting titled "In Balance."

A Personal Connection to Rescue

Richard's bond with horses is deeply personal. He adopted two of his three of his horses from the Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR). Possessing a profound admiration and affection for horses, Richard felt compelled to investigate the potential of capturing their essence through the lens of modern art.

While exploring the concept of using the rescued horses at CHR as subjects in his new body of work, Richard found himself wondering — "Does a horse that has been through the traumatic process of rescue lose its symbolic power to inspire?” This question not only reflects on the horses’ past hardships but also emphasizes their potential for transformation and the beauty they can embody in the present.

He also considered, "Can I capture the essence of these horses in their new surroundings and return their natural dignity through modern painting?" 

On a bright afternoon, Richard visited his friend Megan Goheen at Colorado Horse Rescue. The peaceful setting of CHR served as the perfect backdrop for his artistic exploration. This serene environment not only provided him with a picturesque landscape to inspire his creativity but also allowed him to immerse himself in the profound stories of the rescued horses that called this place home.

"Painted" Oil on Canvas 8" x 8"

"Does a horse that has been through the traumatic process of rescue lose its symbolic power to inspire?”

Richard spent time observing, taking photos, and silently bond with the herd. Instead of brokenness, he found resilience. Instead of despair, he saw peace. Horses of various ages, breeds, and backgrounds were finding safety, comfort, and strength in each other.

Observing the horses interact was enlightening. Each group represented unique relationships, showcasing how the horses comforted each other as they adapted to their new lives. Regardless of breed or age, these animals found joy in simple moments of play, eating, and resting together. Creating art becomes an act of recognition, with each piece serving as a tribute to their ability to inspire and uplift.

"Shadows" Oil on Canvas 12 x 24 x .25

"Shadows" Oil on Canvas 12" x 24"

Creating a Visual Legacy

With newfound inspiration from that day, Richard set out to create a vibrant body of work. His goal extends beyond simply painting horses; he strives to convey the emotional journeys he witnessed. His art serves as a reminder that, while the past may shape their experiences, it does not define their worth or potential for joy. Each brushstroke expresses the dignity, spirit, and beauty of these remarkable animals.

His deep engagement with the rescued horses enabled him to infuse each canvas with authenticity and depth, ensuring that each piece resonates with the viewer on multiple levels.

Richard understands that equine fine art has the potential to reshape public perceptions of rescue horses, presenting them as symbols of hope and strength. By sharing their stories, he hopes to foster a culture in which every horse is honored and offered the chance to thrive.

Stories of Rescue on Canvas: Artist Richard Rodriguez Paints Colorado Horse Rescue’s Horses

Honoring the Spirit of Rescue Horses

In this recent collaboration with Colorado Horse Rescue, Richard has created a dramatic series of paintings that acknowledge the vibrant lives of these horses today rather than just their past traumas. This perspective is crucial, as these works shift the narrative from one of suffering to one of resilience and vitality. Ultimately, Richard’s artistic vision is not just about depicting horses; it is about celebrating the vibrant lives they lead today, reminding us all of the beauty that can emerge from adversity.

"Copper Patina" Oil on Canvas 36" x 24"

Throughout this collection, he captures the essence of their spirit, showcasing their playful nature, their grace in movement, and the bond they share with humans and their environment. Richard aspires for his work to resonate with advocates for horse rescue and collectors of equine fine art alike. By weaving the stories of each horse into his art, he reinforces the notion that every life holds value—regardless of past experiences.

In exhibitions and galleries, Richard’s works invite audiences to reflect on their own perceptions of horses and, by extension, all animals. He hopes to inspire a greater appreciation for the emotional lives of these beings, fostering empathy and encouraging a more humane approach to how society views and treats them.

Future Aspirations

Richard envisions his artistic journey as more than an individual project; it’s a movement aimed at raising awareness about the importance of rescue horses. Many of these horses carry emotional scars, yet those very scars tell powerful stories of resilience and survival.

By sharing these narratives through his art, Richard invites viewers to empathize with the horses' journeys. Each painting serves as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required by advocates to improve the quality of life for these majestic animals.

Final Thoughts on Richard Rodriguez's Mission

In a world often oblivious to the struggles behind closed doors, Richard’s mission provides a fresh perspective filled with hope. By portraying the essence of rescue horses, he preserves their stories and transforms them into symbols of strength and resilience. It is vital that we collectively honor these animals, ensuring that each horse is valued and given a chance to thrive, regardless of its history.

Art Shows & Events

COLORADO GOVERNOR'S ART SHOW

5/3/2025 - 6/14/2025

Loveland Museum

503 N Lincoln AveLoveland, Colorado 80537

https://governorsartshow.org/

PHIPPEN MUSEUM WESTERN ART 51ST ANNUAL SHOW & SALE 

5/24/2025 - 5/26/2025

120 S. Cortez Street

Prescott, Arizona

https://online.flippingbook.com/view/743349294/8/

BROADMOOR ART EXPERIENCE - Live Painting and Sculpting

7/19/2025 - 7/20/2025

Broadmoor

Hotel1 Lake Ave.

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906

https://broadmoorgalleries.com/richard-rodriguez/

ART ASSOCIATION OF JACKSON ARTS FESTIVAL

7/26/2025 - 7/28/2025

240 S Glenwood St,

Jackson, WY 83001

https://artassociation.org/art-fair/

THE CAWDREY GALLERY

Opening Night Reception: 8/7/2025  

206 Lupfer Avenue Unit 102

Whitefish, MT 59937

https://cawdreygallery.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gbp

ARTS STUDENTS LEAGUE OF DENVER -SUMMER ART MARKET

8/24/2025 - 8/25/2025

200 Grant St.

Denver, CO 80203

Tickets go on sale August 1. Purchase tickets in advance to save time at entry day-of.

ST LOUIS ART FAIR

9/05/2025 - 9/07/2025

225 S Meramec Ave #105, 

Clayton, MO 63105

https://www.saintlouisartfair.com/

COORS WESTERN ART "YOUNG GUNS ART SHOW"

12/18/2025

Reception: 12/18/2024  6:00 - 9:30 PM

National Western Complex

4655 N. Humbolt St.

Denver, CO 80216

Website

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All images Copyright Richard Rodriguez and rmrstudio.net -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from SRichard Rodriguez and rmrstudio.net

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How Can "The Wild Horse Effect" by Chad Hanson Transform Your Connection to Nature?

"The Wild Horse Effect: Awe, Well-Being, and the Transformative Power of Nature" is available for presale now and on sale March 11, 2025

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EquuStyle: Who inspired you to become a photographer?

Chad Hanson: My grandfather loved cameras. I grew up watching him tinker with lenses and light meters. By the time I went off to college, it felt natural to think of the world as a subject, and to see our public land as art. I discovered “visual sociology” in school, an approach to the study of culture that uses photographs. Using photos for academic purposes put me in touch with the depression-era work of Walker Evans and Dorothea Lange. To this day, as a teacher, I still use their images in my courses. With regard to mustangs, though, it was the work of Kimerlee Curyl that inspired me early on. As far as I can tell, she has the best timing in the business.

During the workshops that I teach, on writing and photography, I often urge students to “find their heroes.” I believe there’s value in identifying, cultivating, and curating your influences. Still, at some level, it’s the face of nature that serves as the source of my inspiration. Wild horses stare at you from behind nature’s most charismatic faces, and I find the places where they live compelling too.

EquuStyle: A central theme in your book is "awe." Could you explain what "awe" means to you and how people can benefit from experiencing it?

A wild stallion on the high plains of Wyoming

Chad Hanson: When I feel awe I am utterly struck by what’s in front of me. I experience a feeling of absorption in the moment. I actually become so absorbed that it’s hard to keep track of the moments as they slide from the future into the present. I enter a time-outside-of-time. I’m also set upon by the impression that I am a small part of a greater whole, and when I shift back to my normal mode of being, it’s with a heightened sense of gratitude.

My experience of awe is pretty common it turns out, and today, in places like the Greater Good Science Center, scholars like Dacher Keltner use modern techniques for measuring the chemical changes that occur when we feel blown-away. Levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, tend to free-fall. Serotonin levels increase, giving rise to a sense of satisfaction. Most important to me, when we feel awed, the body releases oxytocin, a hormone that increases what we call pro-social tendencies. Under the influence of oxytocin, we grow kinder, more generous, and less self-centered. A whole body of evidence points to the psychological worth of awe, but the social benefits strike me as equally valuable.

EquuStyle: As a faculty member at Casper College, how do you integrate wild horses into your teaching?

Chad Hanson: I teach a short course called The Wild Horse Experience. The class includes two afternoons on campus. Then we load the vans. We head out to search for mustangs on a Saturday field trip. During the course, I share as much I’ve been able to learn about wild horses, but just as important, students describe their experiences with the horses in their lives, past and present. The course unfolds as a discussion about our relationships with horses, and then seemingly without fail, by the end of the class, the conversation shifts. Whether in the field, or in the van on the way home, we end up wondering out loud about American culture and values. In the end, The Wild Horse Experience always seems to turn into a dialog about our relationship to the natural world.

A wild horse and two other wild horses standing on the snow-covered high plaines of Wyoming.

Wild horses communicate with each other through touch.

EquuStyle: Your words focus on honoring horses and giving them dignity. When it comes to wild horses, how do we treat them with dignity?

Anyone who shares their home with cats or dogs or horses knows that animals feel, show preferences, and possess personalities. In our barns and corrals, we bear constant witness to the intelligence, and sometimes the mischievousness of horses. We work with their idiosyncrasies. We teach them, and they learn. Day in and day out, domestic horses prove that they are both educable and capable of making independent decisions.

Ironically, for most of our history, when we studied horses in the wild, we tended to assume that their behaviors were instinctual and thus the result of biological impulse, as opposed to reason or choice-making. To this day, many biologists assume, “If you’ve seen one wild horse you’ve seen them all,” as if their behavior is simply patterned by “the force of nature.” Their actions: outside their control.   

I’m glad to say, in just the past few years, things have started to change. As a sociologist, I was thrilled to see, in 2021, a peer-reviewed article in the sciences suggesting that wild horses create multileveled societies. In the same year, a group of equine subjects in an Italian study passed the mirror-self-recognition test. Horses know who they are. More important, they know who they are in relation to others. We’re just beginning to understand the social relations that wild horses form beyond their immediate family bands. We need further research, of course, but it is becoming clear that mustangs engage in almost constant relationship-building. They likely identify as part of large-scale bonded groups. They can even create and acknowledge an extended clan. In my mind, each step we take to learn more about mustangs, their intelligence and their social lives, the more success we’ll find when it comes to convincing others to see their worth and dignity.

A lone wild horse surveys its habitat in the Wyoming wilderness.

EquuStyle: What do you believe is the most effective way to change the way wild horses are managed?

Chad Hanson: As a general strategy, the Bureau of Land Management treats wild horses—legally defined as American icons and living symbols of the West—as if they were livestock bound for slaughter. In truth, we do not even afford them that level of decency. The BLM hires livestock companies with helicopters to chase and capture our mustangs. But in agribusiness, they only use choppers to locate animals. Business people would never order a helicopter to descend on a herd of stock. If we scared cattle with helicopters, they would run desperately, and potentially injure themselves in the process. We see cattle as having value (economic value) so we take steps to assure their safety. On the other hand, helicopter roundups in horse herds nearly always end with mustangs injured and killed. There are BLM staff that schedule roundup after roundup, knowing they can expect chaos, death and brutality.

The good news: people are like horses. We are not all the same. There are BLM staff members that appreciate mustangs. Within the BLM, there are men and women who would much prefer to use humane and affordable strategies to manage wild horses. I consider it my job, our job, to find those people and to work with them. They could use our help and cooperation is contagious. I am a proud member of a coalition of petitioners in a lawsuit aimed at stopping the complete elimination of two Wyoming herds, so I understand, when we are backed into a corner, we have to appeal to the nation’s highest authorities. But lawsuits come with high stakes, and consequences that we can’t fully control. Long term, I am committed to creating situations where wild horse enthusiasts and BLM staff can work together on behalf of our mustangs.

Chad Hanson's image of a lone wild stallion in Wyoming.

EquuStyle: In the current environment, with traumatizing helicopter roundups and holding pens, how can citizens effectively demand an end to the violence?

Chad Hanson: I encourage citizens and horse advocates to think big—bigger than we have in years. I am a fan of a concept called the “Overton window.” In short, the idea suggests that, at any given time, there is a window, of a certain size, that limits the number of solutions to public policy problems we see as “acceptable.” Thus, successful advocates “open” the window, stretching it in the direction of their interests. In other words, it helps to ask for more than what might seem currently feasible. It’s the only way to make a proposal that feels “unthinkable” today, turn into tomorrow’s “obvious” or “sensible” approach.

I would like to see a diverse coalition of citizens and equine advocacy groups wondering, in open and public forums, “Why don’t we have a Wild Horse National Park?” What about a series of, “Wild Horse National Monuments?” How about the identification of regions that we could call, “Wild Horse Commons,” in states with adjacent herd management areas? I’m talking about large and well-studied regions, home to genetically viable herds, managed on the range through non-violent, humane and affordable means. Everyone knows that suggestions on these lines will meet with opposition, but none of these proposals will ever come about if we don’t start the conversations.

In the long run, persistent efforts in these directions might bear fruit. And in the short term, discussions about expanding protections for mustangs hold the potential to pull currently “outlandish” ideas into the realm of the possible. If we shift the conversation toward hard-to-achieve goals, then suddenly, the reasonable (but currently out-of-the-question) suggestion to halt the helicopters and treat wild horses with dignity starts to feel like “common sense.”

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All images Copyright Chad Hanson -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Chad Hanson.

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The Sublime Equine Art and Sculpture of Laura A. Mehmert

War Horse is an award-winning watercolor

Laura Mehmert, a passionate artist residing in the picturesque town of Evergreen, Colorado, has dedicated over three decades of her life to the realms of painting and art instruction. Her journey into the world of art began at a tender age when her grandmother, recognizing her budding creativity, gifted her a set of oil paints on her eighth birthday. This thoughtful gesture sparked a lifelong passion, and Laura has been immersed in the world of painting ever since, exploring various mediums and techniques with an insatiable curiosity.

Initially, she embarked on her artistic career by experimenting with watercolor, a medium that allowed her to capture the delicate interplay of light and color. Laura spent many years mastering watercolor painting and has received many accolades for her exceptional work. However, her artistic exploration did not stop there; she eventually ventured into the rich and vibrant world of oil painting, where she found a another connection to her artistic expression.  Perfecting her drawing skills has always been a critical part of her work and central to her teaching other aspiring artists.

Three Amigos is an oil painting

Over the years, she has also embraced sculpting, adding yet another dimension to her artistic repertoire. Laura's diverse experiences and her continuous pursuit of artistic growth have not only enriched her own practice but have also enabled her to inspire countless students through her art instruction, sharing her knowledge and passion for creativity with others in her community.

She attended the University of Missouri in Kansas City, where she immersed herself in a vibrant artistic community and honed her skills under the guidance of several renowned artists. These artists, known for their unique styles and contributions to the field of art, provided Laura with invaluable mentorship, allowing her to explore various techniques and mediums. This rigorous training not only refined her artistic abilities but also deepened her understanding of art history and contemporary practices, which would later influence her own work.

After completing her education, Laura took on the role of instructor at the Bountiful/Davis Art Center, located in the picturesque city of Bountiful, Utah. There, she shared her passion for art with students of all ages, creating an engaging learning environment that encouraged creativity and self-expression. Her classes were designed to cater to a diverse group of learners, from beginners to more experienced artists, and she often incorporated elements of art theory, practical techniques, and personal feedback to help her students develop their own unique artistic voices.

Fine Artist Laura A. Mehmert

Laura's artwork has gained significant recognition, having been featured in prestigious exhibitions such as the juried Loveland Sculpture Show and the Best of the West exhibition held in Dallas, Texas. These events are known for showcasing the work of exceptional artists, and Laura's participation highlighted her growing reputation in the art world. Her pieces, characterized by their intricate details and emotive qualities, resonated with both the jurors and the public, further establishing her as a notable figure in contemporary sculpture.

In addition to her exhibition successes, her artwork has been acquired by esteemed institutions, including the Ramon Research Foundation and the Gates Family Foundation. These collections are known for their commitment to supporting and promoting the arts, and her inclusion in these prestigious collections speaks volumes about the quality and impact of her work.

One of her most significant achievements is the creation of an 8-foot commissioned bronze sculpture, which is permanently displayed at the Hiwan Museum in Evergreen, Colorado. This monumental piece not only showcases her technical prowess in working with bronze but also stands as a testament to her ability to create art that captivates and inspires viewers. The Hiwan Museum, known for its rich history and dedication to the arts, provides a fitting backdrop for her sculpture, allowing it to be appreciated by a wide audience and contributing to the cultural landscape of the region.

The Foreman

Side view of The Foreman

The artist with "The Foreman"

Her passion for her work is infectious, radiating a vibrant energy that inspires those around her. "Painting is a deeply personal expression of how I perceive a specific moment," she explains, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Every brushstroke is a reflection of my emotions and thoughts, a snapshot of my experience at that very instant in time. A painting must possess spirit and substance, capturing the viewer's attention and inviting them into my world. It is not just about the visual appeal; it is about creating a connection, a dialogue between the artwork and the observer."

She elaborates on her techniques, stating, "I work with both oil and watercolor, appreciating each for its distinct qualities and the unique effects they can produce. Oil paints allow for rich textures and vibrant colors that can be layered and manipulated over time, creating depth and complexity. In contrast, watercolor offers a fluidity and translucence that can evoke a sense of lightness and spontaneity. I don't prefer one over the other; rather, I immerse myself in whichever medium best suits the subject I'm depicting. Whether it's the delicate washes of watercolor, the bold strokes of oil, the tactile nature of clay, or the versatility of cloth, each medium presents its own set of possibilities and challenges."

"Takara" a watercolor painting

Distant Thunder is a large bronze sculpture

Steady Now is an oil painting

Mustang Three

Four Play is a watercolor painting

Into the Wind is a bronze sculpture

Art is not merely a hobby or a job for her; it is a lifestyle, an integral part of her identity. "I need to pursue it to maintain balance in this fast-paced world," she asserts. "In a society that often feels overwhelming and chaotic, creating art provides me with a sanctuary, a space where I can express my innermost thoughts and feelings freely. It is a form of meditation, a way to ground myself amidst the noise of everyday life. Each piece I create is a journey, a process that brings me endless joy and fulfillment."

The Black and The Paint oil painting

Through her work, she seeks to convey emotions and stories that resonate with others, hoping to spark inspiration and reflection. "I believe that art has the power to transcend barriers and connect people from different walks of life. When someone stands in front of my painting, I want them to feel something—whether it's nostalgia, happiness, or even a sense of peace. That connection is what makes the creative process so rewarding for me."

Laura currently teaches regular watercolor and oil classes out of her Evergreen studio and holds workshops in oil, watercolor, and drawing. Contact her for pricing and schedules.

See more of Laura's remarkable work at https://www.lauramehmertdesigns.com/

Laura Mehmert Designs

All images Copyright Laura A. Mehmert and Laura Mehmert Designs -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Laura A. Mehmert and/or Laura Mehmert Designs.

#lauramehmert #lauramehmertdesigns #fineart #equinefineart #horseart #equustyle #equustylemagazine