Horses Through History

“My art is like air, I can’t live without it. And I’ve had a passion for horses my whole life. To bring the passion that has driven me in my art and the passion I have for horses together for this show is very exciting!” – Star Liana York

Excitement is building as planning begins for the one-woman show, “Horses Through History,” featuring the work of renowned sculptor Star Liana York. Mark your calendars for the opening reception on August 2, 2019, during First Friday Art Walk, from 5:00-7:30 pm at the gallery’s Santa Fe location, at 125 W Palace Ave. The exhibition, with new work and several never before seen pieces, can be enjoyed daily throughout the month of August. 

Star Liana York’s life and career well reflect her interest in how horses have influenced man throughout history. Perceiving mankind’s enduring relationship with equine, either tangible or idealistic, Star chose to focus on that shared and personal enthusiasm for this show. With new pieces and several never before seen works, this show will clearly demonstrate how Star’s passion for art and horses feeds her, and how she, in turn, feeds those passions. In her words, “My art is like air, I can’t live without it. And I’ve had a passion for horses my whole life. To bring the passion that has driven me in my art and the passion I have for horses together for this show is very exciting!”

“The essential joy of being with horses is that it puts you in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and fire.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

During the past couple of years, Star has observed firsthand her husband’s involvement in a horse shelter program that prepares wild Mustangs for adoption. Comparing these wild horses with domesticated horses had a strong impact on her. “Watching these Mustangs, their strength and sense of self-preservation, I started thinking of how man throughout history interacted with these wild creatures. It’s a journey for both the horse and the human, where respect has to be given and earned.” Recognizing that many have experienced this journey, Star has honored requests for commissions of horses that are part of a family’s personal story, or that she rescale a smaller work into a monumental piece for a ranch. A quote that Star often thinks of as she continues on her own equine journey is from Oliver Wendell Holmes, “The essential joy of being with horses is that it puts you in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and fire.”Shanan Campbell, owner of Sorrel Sky Gallery, expressed her enduring fascination with Star’s work. “I grew up riding and competing in horse shows. When I engage with Star’s equine pieces, my memories of the time spent in the presence of such strong and powerful creatures, rush through me. She truly captures our unending fascination with the horse and all it has represented throughout history.”

Join us for opening night and meet Star, or visit us during the month of August to enjoy her work in person!