Unforgettable Patagonia: An Adventure Unlike Any Other

Are you ready to begin a journey that will forever change your perspective on travel? Welcome to Torres del Paine, the true crown jewel of Patagonia! This isn't just another entry on your bucket list; it’s a chance to transform your spirit through an incredible adventure.

Picture this: the first rays of sunlight illuminating the impressive Cordillera Paine, transforming the landscape into a vibrant masterpiece. This breathtaking destination is not only known for its striking views; it’s about adventure, peace, and making unforgettable memories. Imagine starting your day with yoga, embarking on thrilling hikes through scenic trails, biking around the stunning Laguna Azul, and riding horseback alongside a real Patagonian cowboy. With this, you are invited to discover the enchanting wonders of Patagonia.

The turquoise beauty of Laguna Azul in Torres del Paine National Park

Wake Up to Awe-Inspiring Views

Patagonia isn’t just a location; it’s an immersive experience for your body, mind, and spirit. Imagine beginning your day with yoga on the shores of a serene lake, surrounded by towering mountains and vibrant greenery. As you flow through your poses, the sunrise casts a warm golden light over the landscape, setting the stage for an extraordinary day filled with activities.

Women's Quest hikers feeling enlivened by the peaks of Torres del Paine

Once you are centered and energized, it’s time to discover the stunning trails that Patagonia offers. From exhilarating hikes through dense valleys to challenging treks leading to breathtaking viewpoints, every trail unveils a unique story.

Explore Patagonia's Wonders

Feeling sheer joy after hiking to the Base of the Towers

The pristine trails in Torres del Paine are perfect for every level of adventurer. Tie up your hiking boots and prepare to witness diverse scenery that ranges from dense forests to awe-inspiring mountain landscapes. For example, the popular W Trek offers a balance of challenges and spectacular views, allowing hikers to navigate rugged paths while enjoying destinations like the Base of the Towers, where three granite peaks rise majestically.

A highlight of your Patagonia adventure will surely be a bike ride around the dazzling Laguna Azul. Feel the refreshing Patagonian breeze on your face as you pedal along the edge of turquoise waters that gleam under the sun. Pause for a moment to drink in the vibrant colors and calmness of the lake; it’s a breathtaking view that will imprint itself in your memory.

Experience Patagonia on Horseback

If you want to connect with the culture of Patagonia, riding horseback with an expert Basqueano offers a deeper understanding of the region's heritage. These seasoned Patagonian cowboys carry invaluable insights about the land and its traditional way of life, allowing you to experience an authentic ride through picturesque trails.

As your horse navigates the rolling plains and secluded valleys, take time to absorb the sights and sounds around you. The rhythmic motion of the horse combined with crisp mountain air creates a unique connection to the wild around you. Did you know that over 80% of the terrain in Torres del Paine is accessible only on horseback?

Discover the Magic of Patagonia on Horseback: Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure Awaits

Cruise to Grey Glacier

As your boat glides across the calm waters of Grey Lake, you’ll witness the striking beauty of rugged mountains and floating icebergs. Grey Glacier itself is a stunning sight, with ice formations that showcase the raw power of nature.The sight of icebergs glimmering in the sunlight is something truly special. For photography enthusiasts, this is your moment—every snapshot captures the essence of nature’s masterpieces in stunning detail.

The sound of ice cracking and shifting is mesmerizing. Each moment spent here captures the dramatic tale of ancient glacial movements, immersing you even deeper into this enchanting environment.

Cruising towards the massive Grey Glacier

Discover Valle Frances by Catamaran

One of the park’s hidden treasures is Valle Frances—a spectacular valley surrounded by colossal peaks. A catamaran ride invites you to the heart of this beautiful scenery.

As you glide along the pristine waters, take in the untouched nature around you. Upon reaching the landing point, you have the opportunity to hike through wilderness that feels like an exclusive secret. Expect to be captivated by the vibrant flora and fauna, including vividly colored wildflowers and majestic condors soaring overhead.

Paddle through the Straits of Magellan

The adventure doesn’t stop there. Next, set out to conquer the legendary Straits of Magellan. Kayaking provides an intimate connection with the environment as you glide over the calm waters, gaining a unique perspective on the magnificent scenery.

While navigating through the straits, keep watch for playful sea lions and an array of seabirds. Each stroke of the paddle pulls you deeper into the wonders of this stunning paradise.

Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure Awaits

Patagonia captivates with its enchanting landscapes. The diverse scenery, breathtaking views, and rich culture create a perfect haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking genuine exploration. Whether you're trekking, biking, or discovering Patagonia on horseback, every experience enriches your soul and connects you to the beauty of the Earth.

Now that you've seen some of the magic of Torres del Paine and the adventures that lie ahead, why hesitate? Break free from the mundane and create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Patagonia is not merely a destination; it’s a place that will redefine your notion of adventure travel. Unplug from the chaos of everyday life and forge a deeper connection with nature; this is a journey you won’t regret.

From sunrise yoga to exceptional hikes, biking, and the thrill of riding horseback, each activity contributes to a unique story that belongs only to you. Do not just fantasize about adventures—immerse yourself in them! Book your journey to Patagonia now and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Your invitation to explore Patagonia’s wonders is here. Will you answer the call?

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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.

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Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with Wild Horse Photo Safaris

Memories of Onaqui Wild Horses Linger Long After the Photo Safari

Wild Horse Photo Safaris (www.wildhorsephotosafaris.com) is a labor of love and a offers unique, custom tailored, ecologically conscious photographic viewing experience through my business A Place In Time Photography, LLC (www.APlaceInTimePhotos.com).

My private year-round tours start and end in the small rural town of Tooele and can accommodate any photography skill level from novice or professionals. Even non-photographers who simply love horses and wildlife have raved it’s been one of the best experiences of their lives.  Tooele is very easy to access only a short 25 minute drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport.

Pensative Onaqui wild horse

Onaqui wild horsepower!

Onaqui wild stallion rears

Onaqui wild horse grazes

By choosing to accompany me with Wild Horse Photo Safaris on range you are getting the advantage of a unique and customizable experience from someone whose life is entrenched the wild horses on a daily basis.  I've spent over 2,500 hours documenting the herd, the individual family members, their locations, patterns, hide outs and likes and dislikes.  This enables me to help my guests have the best experience possible during your tour. 

It also helps you to feel confident that our time with the wild horses is done in a way that is most at harmony with their location and comfort levels and with the intention of preserving their natural behaviors and surrounding ecological resources for years to come. 

While in Utah’s west desert, my guests will be provided with comprehensive information about the Onaqui herds, band structure and individual horses.  You'll learn their names, stories and what challenges they have had and may still face both on and off the range.  You'll also learn in real time about wild horse behavior and how to read their body language, mannerisms and interactions.

All of my photo safaris are private and limited to small groups traveling together to help ensure the best experience for you and for the Onaqui horses as well.  Tour lengths vary and range from 4 hours, 6 hours to sunrise/sunset per day and multi-day bookings can also be accommodated. 

Onaqui Wild Stallion

Onaqui wild stallions sparring

Beautiful Onaqui wild horse

Previous guests routinely rave about the undeniable spirit of the Onaqui wild mustangs and share that they can’t stop thinking about them long after returning home. 

·         Devona from Arizona shares “What a wonderful experience of light and joy with this wonderful lady.  She has devoted years with dedication and love … holding them in compassion for the rest of the world to witness.” 

·         Lisa from Arizona says “I can’t really find the words to express how my experience with the horses affected me.  It was amazing, breathtaking and soul stirring.  I absolutely fell in love with the Onaqui. They are so special. I fell in love because I was able to hear their stories, history, family dynamics, etc. from someone, Jen Rogers, who has a passion and love for these horses that can’t help but rub off.  It’s contagious.” 

·         John from Virginia shares “It exceeded our expectations.  We saw more wild horses than we could have imagined.  We were able to get close, but not disrupt them in any way.  We can’t say enough good things about our guide Jen.  She knows everything about the horses.  She knows them all by name, how old they are, which horses are in which small group and the behaviors of each horse.  Jen loves all of the horses and is a passionate advocate for them.  Thank you Jen for the experience of a lifetime and one of our best days ever.”

Conservation efforts, including photographic documentation, education and protection, have always been at the forefront of my mind even as a young girl.  I spent long hours near woods and streams learning to identify tracks and understand wildlife behavior.  This has carried me through the years as I traveled abroad exploring several countries where I loved volunteering time and photography skills at animal sanctuaries or private reserves.

An affectionate moment between two Onaqui wild horses in Western Utah

My prior travels and interest in conservation set the foundation for me to start my own locally based 501c3 non-profit Red Birds Trust (redbirdstrust.org) to help preserve and protect the Onaqui wild horses both on and off the range.  Red Birds Trust has worked with various other wild horse advocates around the US to speak for the betterment of the care of the Onaqui wild horses, held numerous range clean up events, sanctuary spotlight events, and assisted in the placement of 150 Onaqui wild horses to date.  Many of these Onaqui we rescued have been bought from kill pens and were slated to be sent to slaughter after they were rounded up off the range and their placements with private owners fail them.

Wild Horse Photo Safaris

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EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Jennifer Rogers of Wild Horse Photo Safaris for sharing an excellent article and her gorgeous photographs. As founder of the wild horse advocacy nonprofit Red Birds Trust, Jen Rogers dedication to educate the public about protecting and preserving America’s vanishing wild horses and, in particular the Onaqui wild mustangs, is immensely inspiring.

All images copyright Wild Horse Photo Safaris -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Jennifer Rodgers and Wild Horse Photo Safaris.

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