Wellington Elementary School Students Exhibit Work to Celebrate the Year of the Horse
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2014) – Lexington’s Wellington Elementary School and the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park will be celebrating the Year of the Horse with a special exhibit, beginning Jan. 22. “Shodo: The Art of Japanese Brush Painting,” will feature calligraphy created by the school’s third, fourth, and fifth grade students.
Each student used black Japanese ink (sumi) and bamboo brushes (fude) to paint the character for the word “horse” (uma) and their names on rice paper. Calligraphy is considered high art in the Far East, and there is a specific stroke order and ink weight for each character.
Until its adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1912, China used the lunar calendar. The Chinese calendar works in a cyclical pattern in which each cycle is 12 years long and begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice. Within this calendar, each year is represented by an animal whose characteristics symbolize the mood of the year and those born within it.
Those born in 2014 – and every 12 years prior, each Year of the Horse – are considered to be adventurous, carefree and fun with a sense of humor. Culturally, the celebration of the Lunar New Year is still very popular in China and Japan as well as Vietnam, Korea, and Taiwan.
The students’ art will be on display at the International Museum of the Horse until April 18. More information is available at www.imh.org.
The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm/theme park and equine competition facility dedicated to man’s relationship with the horse. The park is an agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and hosted more than 800,000 visitors and campers, as well as 18,400 competition horses in more than 200 special events and horse shows in 2013. The park is home to the National Horse Center, which comprises more than 30 national and regional equine organizations. Located at Exit 120, Interstate 75, just north of Lexington, the Kentucky Horse Park is the place to get close to horses. Information about the park’s programs and activities can be on-line at www.KyHorsePark.com, and on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Instagram.
Wellington, FL – December 23, 2013 – Phelps Media Group is pleased to announce that fine artist Louise Mellon will join its roster of clients. Mellon currently resides in Aiken, SC, and is originally from Middleburg, VA. She is known for her brightly-colored and whimsical portrayals of the equestrian and animal worlds.
“We are thrilled to have Louise join our family of clients,” said Mason Phelps Jr., president of Phelps Media Group. “Her work is fun, bright and positive. We look forward to spreading the word about Louise to an even wider audience.”
Often seen gracing the pages of equestrian publications, Mellon’s work is representative of her positive and enthusiastic approach to life. She prefers to represent the everyday world from an unexpected and high-impact slant. Often, her paintings will elicit a smile or a chuckle. The Chronicle of the Horse selected Mellon’s piece, “Horse on Skis,” for the cover of its Dec. 23, 2013 – Jan 6, 2014 edition.
The Chronicle of the Horse selected Louise Mellon’s “Horse on Skis” for its holiday issue
Mellon has served on the boards of the National Gallery of Art, the Collectors Committee of the Virginia Museum of Fine Art in Richmond and the American Academy of Equine Art. She is currently a board member of the Aiken Center for the Arts.
Editors and publishers often reach out to Mellon for cover art and to enhance the pages of their publications. Southwest Art Magazine, Sidelines and the covers of multiple event programs and publications such as the Tanglewood Steeplechase program, Polo America Directory, Barn Book and Aiken Horse have all chosen Mellon’s distinctive work.
Mellon’s work has been presented at solo and juried shows in Washington, DC; Middleburg, VA; Aiken, SC; Upperville, VA; Portland, Maine; Lexington, KY; New Haven, CT; Marietta, GA; Rockingham, NH; Saratoga, NY; and West Grove, PA.
Friend and collector Bruce Duchossois will host a private showing of Mellon’s work in Wellington, FL, during the 2014 winter equestrian season.
About Louise Mellon
Mellon was born to a family of artists who encouraged her creativity early on. She was raised in Middleburg, VA, where she rode and drove horses. Mellon’s keen visual sense led her to a career as a commercial photographer and artist. Her work has been seen branding numerous products and covers of prize lists, racing programs and publications. She moved to Aiken, SC and custom built a very special studio, where she works, welcomes visiting artists and hosts local events. Mellon’s unique view of the world is demonstrated through all her work. Her style is instantly recognizable and certain to bring enjoyment, laughter and wonder.
Tampa, FL – December 20, 2013 – Thanks to the generous support of Jocelyn Sandor Urban Fine Art, Western Riding competitors at the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit could be riding away with a gorgeous graphite portrait of their favorite equine.
During the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit, to be held December 27-31, 2013 at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center, winners of each of the five Western Riding divisions will be awarded a commissioned graphite drawing of the horse of their choosing. The top finishers in the Select Amateur, Amateur, Youth, Senior and Green Western Riding divisions will be presented with the opportunity to have their most valued equine immortalized in striking graphite by Urban.
Urban has been creating stunning oil, graphite and conte crayon portraits of horses and dogs since 1981.
“I try to capture the soul of each animal I draw or paint,” Urban said previously. “Each one is different; each has its own story. A drawing can emphasize important aspects of the look of an animal in ways a photo cannot. An accurate, sensitive representation of a subject in an interesting composition is my goal.”
In addition to her breathtaking portraits, Urban and her husband created a line of equestrian greeting cards, particularly focused on depicting the humorous side of life with horses.
“It’s a line of greeting cards for horse owners and horse enthusiasts. We have approximately 80 of them right now. A number of them are pretty funny,” Urban explained. “They range from cards about riding and horse care to the portraits to Christmas cards.”
To view samples of the card line, to browse Urban’s portfolio and to learn more about Jocelyn Sandor Urban Fine Art, visit www.fursure.com.
For more information about the Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit, please visit www.flgoldcoastcircuit.com. The schedule and stall reservation form are now available for download. For regular updates about the competition, please find us on Facebook by searching “Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuit.”
Florida Gold Coast and Florida Gulf Coast Quarter Horse Show Circuit Fast Facts
EVENT: Florida Gold Coast Quarter Horse Show and Florida Gulf Coast Quarter Horse Show
WHEN: Gold Coast Quarter Horse Show December 27-31, 2013 and Gulf Coast Quarter Horse Show January 1-6, 2014
WHAT: Two weeks of Quarter Horse shows featuring 12 full AQHA shows and ten full days of events including AQHA hunters, equitation, reining, western pleasure, trail riding, driving, showmanship halter classes at Bob Thomas Equestrian, plus additional strictly Western classes, Roping, Working Cowhorse, Cutting, and the newest event, Ranch Pleasure, held at Triple J Arena in Sarasota. Please call 561-722-7979 for more information about Triple J Arena classes.
WHERE: Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds
4800 North US Highway 301
Tampa, FL 33680
HIGHLIGHTS:
– Western & English Pleasure
– Trail
– Hunters and Equitation
– Driving
– Showmanship
– Halter
THE FACILITY: Bob Thomas Equestrian Center, Tampa, FL
All arenas have a separate warm-up area:
Grand Prix Field 250′ x 350′
Covered Ring 165′ x 300′
Annex Ring 150′ x 275′
Indoor Ring 130′ x 250′
JUDGES:
Gold Coast – Dec. 27-31:
– Tony Burris
– John Dean
– Scott Hofstetter
– Nancy Sue Ryan
– Steve Stephens
– Carla Wennburg
– Daren Wright
Emily Riden for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International
March 20th, 2013 – Jane Heart has enhanced her licensed jewelry designs for this special 40th anniversary by incorporating iconic blue enamel onto Secretariat’s blinkers. From the famous cover of Time Magazine to his commemorative postage stamp, Secretariat’s image comes to life with these finely detailed sterling silver and enameled pieces. These sterling silver designs, enameled specifically for Secretariat’s Triple Crown Anniversary, include a large and small pendant, a charm and a brooch. Additional pieces include a sporty blue leather bracelet with charm, a denim lapis bead necklace and classic cuff links. All designs are made and enameled in the United States. Each piece is stamped with Secretariat’s name on the back and comes gift boxed with a blue pouch and a commemorative card.
Secretariat, America’s champion, fondly known as “Big Red”, became a hero and symbol of hope during the early 1970s. His legacy as the greatest racehorse of all time has endured to this day. Winner of the coveted Triple Crown, Secretariat is the only horse ever to break all three track records of the Kentucky Derby, The Preakness and Belmont Stakes in the 93 years of the Triple Crown.
A portion of all sales benefits the Secretariat Foundation started by Penny Chenery to benefit equine related charities. Jane Heart licensed Secretariat Jewelry designs are available at select stores and online at www.secretariat.com and www.janeheart.com.
The trademark SECRETARIAT is used under license. All Secretariat designs and photographs are copyright protected by Jane Heart, LLC with any and all rights to publication reserved.
For further information, contact:
Jane Heart LLC
PO Box 6399
Scottsdale, AZ 85261 jane@janeheart.com www.janeheart.com
Phone: 480-998-0503
1-888-703-0503
Mobile 602-300-5148
Wellington, FL – March 20, 2013 – Participants and visitors are treated to a vast array of international art at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC). From the powerful horse sculptures at the spectator entrance to galleries around the International Arena, enthusiasts can find everything from emerging artists to masters and also meet artists available for commissions.
NEW RIVER FINE ART GALLERY IN THE INTERNATIONAL CLUB
Started by Lisa Burgess 15 years ago, New River Fine Art broke the mold of the traditional gallery. Burgess wanted to bring a broad spectrum of art to her customers instead of focusing on one style or specific period. Sourcing work from around the globe allows her to work with many types of collectors. “When I started, people said this type of gallery would never work. But I felt that focusing on quality art from many periods would offer broader appeal. My own collecting tastes range from Impressionism to fine Contemporary art, so I thought other collectors would be drawn to a gallery that offered fine art in a variety of styles and mediums,” she states.
New River Fine Art has brought their work to the gallery in the International Club Foyer at the Palm Beach International Center where you will find everything from emerging artists to Picasso, Chagall, and Dali. The gallery is open to the public in the Club and rotates paintings, sculptures and glass works.
Visitors have been impressed by Virginia Fifield’s charcoals of horses or Ramon Vilanova’s landscapes making a rare appearance before going onto a museum exhibition. Wall Streeters may also recognize the iconic Charging Bull from sculptor Arturo DiModica.
In addition to visual enjoyment, art can also be a valuable investment. Burgess comments, “As with any type of investing, you must work with people who are experienced, knowledgeable, trustworthy and have a good reputation built over years in business.” Burgess and her team work diligently to authenticate each work and have consulted on numerous high end acquisitions.
“Prices of work typically exhibited in the gallery range from $2,500 up to $500,000,” Burgess explains. “We will privately source work of a more significant nature on an individual basis. We represent our clients when dealing with private collections and at auction.”
New River Fine Art is also available for interior design consultation, providing artwork for homes, offices, yachts, and corporate collections. They recently curated the art for the W Hotel in Ft. Lauderdale including underwater installations.
With an international clientele, New River Fine Art strives to provide the utmost in customer service. Burgess comments, “We frequently ship artwork and send our consultants around the world to work with clients at their convenience, no matter if they be in Singapore or Chicago.”
Since her earliest formal training as a young child in Montreal, internationally acclaimed artist Josée Nadeau has relentless followed a passion for art, drawing inspiration from landscapes, lifestyles and cultural icons all over the world. Her works are on display at The Gallery at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.
Artist Josée Nadeau with legendary song writer and performer Gloria Gaynor at The Gallery
Nadeau had the pleasure of being a guest in the private studio in Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny, invited by the renowned curator Gerald Van der Kemp and his wife Florence. Nadeau’s ten year stay honed her artistic and cultural skills as the guest of the curator, visited by legendary artists and leaders of state. Nadeau’s works now hang in galleries and homes of the most noted collectors such as Frances Fisher, Pierce Brosnan, and Oprah Winfrey.
Her audience has the pleasure of sharing her world travels and adventures through her paintings. While Nadeau’s eyes are always working, so are her other senses. Her paintings are not only a visual feast but an opportunity to evoke all the senses whether it is the sound of the coffee cup in the café, the smell of fresh cut flowers, or the wind in a horse’s mane or the strength of its neck. Nadeau comments, “With anything I paint it’s about capturing the spirit.” That spirit is what takes the “still” out of the still life. She has been invited again to the Hamptons where her paintings will hang in the Ralph Lauren stores.
Josée also paints live on stage in art performances with groups like The Salt Lake Symphony Orchestra as well as artists such as Harry Belafonte and Dionne Warwick.
On any given show day you can find Josée painting in her venue The Gallery which offers nearly 360 degree views of the International Arena. A recent visit by Gloria Gaynor to help raise money for the animal charity Danny and Ron’s Rescue led Josée to a sneak preview of her soon to be released new single.
Josée Nadeau is available for commissions to paint what is near and dear to you, be it your horse, home, family, or garden, as a lasting visual memory.
Shelli Breidenbach’s unforgettable photographs grace the cover of both the 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival Prize List and the Official Souvenir Program. These images are available as collectible posters and T-shirts found at the WEF Boutiques. You can also see her larger than life images on display at The Wellington Club during the season.
The horses chosen for this unique process of “digital dye” printed on “flag fabric” are some of the sport’s biggest stars. This was a huge privilege for Shelli to work with each of these amazing athletes, developing a relationship in order to get the best results. These magnificent nine foot by four foot works of art are visible from the International Club and even from the “golf cart view” from the Eugene R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring.
Breidenbach’s latest photographs are featured in a beautiful layout in the U.S. launch of the international equestrian luxury magazine Equestrio recently published.
Working with horses as subjects, Breidenbach expects the unexpected. She explains, “I decided on the nude series and took off halters and bridles. It’s a much more elegant photograph when the horses are not wearing anything but it’s a lot riskier. We shoot in paddocks so if they run away they can’t go far. My heart has stopped on more than one occasion,” she adds with a smile, “but thankfully they always come back.” Photography is a full body sport for Shelli, who you will find at all angles to get the most creative shot.
As a long-time equestrian, Shelli has developed a strong bond with horses, “It’s more about the relationship you develop with them than being in the ring,” she says. Indeed Breidenbach has a bit of the horse whisperer about her. “I talk to them all the time like they’re children. It’s somehow reassuring to them,” she laughs, “or maybe to me.”
Just like top models her equine subjects are pros. Even the legendary Sapphire paid no attention to a flapping backdrop and struck a perfect pose in twenty minutes. “These are highly trained horses so they’re accustomed to strange light and backgrounds,” Breidenbach explains. “We build a set on location. It’s about $150,000 worth of equipment — hand painted backdrops, huge stands, and multiple assistants. It’s like a fashion shoot.”
Breidenbach’s large digital equine images were so striking that they caught the eye of the Ralph Lauren brand and her works have been represented in their D&D show room in Manhattan. “One of the best compliments I ever got,” says Shelli, “was when one of the salespeople in the showroom said their architect and designer clients fell in love with the images, commenting you don’t have to be a horse person to love these photographs.”
Fans of Shelli Breidenbach’s work will be thrilled to know her newest adventure is a textile line – all equestrian themed and based on her photographs. She comments, “We really need an updated and clean version of equestrian style products. There’s room if you do it in a nice, modern way. Hopefully we will have it ready for the spring of 2013.”
Shelli is also available to do portraits of your horse – a truly unforgettable image.
The accomplished 23-year-old Adrian Landon has taken the art scene by storm with his stunning equine sculptures, taking base metal and turning it into artistic gold. His sculptures are at the entrance to the PBIEC and also the Adequan Global Dressage Festival. Over the past three years Landon has created grand and accomplished sculptures. His life-size horses seem to breathe with life despite their iron clad bodies. For information on purchase, please contact Isabelle Delgrange, isabelledelgrange@gmail.com.
DOUWE BLUMBERG
A masterful piece of illusion, Reflections, has visitors stopping to decipher and admire the sculpture of a horse looking at its own reflection. Located near the fountain at the main spectator entrance of the PBIEC, the sculpture by Douwe Blumberg seems to float above the ground. The limited edition is available in different sizes. For more information, visit www.douwestudios.com.
About the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival The 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival has 12 weeks of top competition running from January 9 through March 31. The FTI WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, and Wellington Equestrian Partners and held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. All 12 shows are “AA” rated and Jumper Rated 6, and more than $7 million in prize money will be awarded. For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com.
About FTI Consulting FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations protect and enhance enterprise value in an increasingly complex legal, regulatory and economic environment. With more than 3,800 employees located in 24 countries, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges in areas such as investigations, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory issues, reputation management, strategic communications and restructuring. The company generated $1.56 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2011. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.
LONG ISLAND, NY – March 12 – Professional photographer Diana De Rosa was presented with the 6th Annual Photography Masters Cup Nominee title in the category of Sport at a prestigious Nomination & Winners Photoshow. The live online ceremony webcast was attended by photography fans in 86 countries who logged on to see the climax of the industry’s most important event for color photography.
The awards international Jury included captains of the industry from Phillips de Pury & Company in New York; Kunst Licht Gallery, Shanghai; XPO Gallery, Paris; Tasveer Galleries, India; BFN, Netherlands; to BBH in London who honored Color Masters with 239 coveted title awards in 18 categories.
“It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the 8,521 entries we received this year,” said Basil O’Brien, the awards Creative Director. “Diana De Rosa’s photo ‘Horse Elegance’ is an exceptional image entered in the sport category and represents contemporary color photography at its finest. We’re pleased to present Diana with the title of Nominee.”
“I am thrilled to have achieved this honor,” De Rosa remarked. “My passion for photography has taken me all over the world. This photo was taken during the Alltech World Equestrian Games when it was held in my own country in the state of Kentucky. To be recognized for my photography internationally is extremely rewarding. I post a lot of my photography for people to view on my web site, www.dianaderosa.com, so that others can share in the beauty of the horse.”
INTERNATIONAL COLOR AWARDS, PHOTOGRAPHY MASTERS CUP is the leading international award honoring excellence in color photography. This celebrated event shines a spotlight on the best professional and amateur photographers worldwide and honors the finest images with the highest achievements in color photography. www.photomasterscup.com.
WESTPORT, CT – March 4, 2013 – Artist Josee Nadeau will create an original painting live at the Fete Cheval Etoile on Friday, March 8, 2013 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Nadeau will perform to the musical tribute by Ki-Juan Minors to celebrate the unveiling of the Horse Stars Hall of Fame, and will donate the painting to be auctioned off later in the evening.
“I am honored to support the EQUUS Foundation which helps so many equine organizations,” said Nadeau. Nadeau’s amazing equine paintings are on display at the Gallery at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center through the end of March. “I was enthralled with Nadeau’s work when I viewed it first hand,” said Lynn Coakley, EQUUS Foundation President. “Her images of horses truly capture their spirit and the bond between horses and people. We are so thrilled that she will perform live at our event.”
Nadeau was inspired to combine her art with music after a 2000 encounter at the private home of Guy Laliberte, founder of Cirque du Soleil, where George Harrison sang to her for 4 hours.
Josee Nadeau painting live to the Salt Lake City Symphony Orchestra
In October Nadeau was invited to paint live on stage to the 95-piece Salt Lake City Symphony Orchestra. In December she painted live to Dionne Warwick at her 50th anniversary performance. She has also been invited to paint the Royal Family of Serbia, Harry Belafonte while he was giving a Humanitarian speech, and many other amazing and special events. This past fall Nadeau was the featured artist at two Ralph Lauren stores in the Hamptons, South Hampton and East Hampton.
Nadeau, born in Montreal, and now residing in Utah was the guest painter of esteemed curator Gerald Van der Kemp on the grounds of Impressionist painter Claude Monet’s gardens for a period of 10 years defining her unique artistic skills.
The Fete Cheval Etoile, which will be held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida, will celebrate the launch of the Horse Stars Hall of Fame, a joint effort of the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) to honor the contributions of amazing horses that have excelled in sport and in careers serving the public by sharing the stories of their athletic and humanitarian feats.
Azur by Josee Nadeau
In addition to Nadeau’s performance art and the musical tribute by Ki-Juan Minors, the star-studded evening includes cocktails, dinner, a sensational show by Cirque Vertigo, and dancing to the sounds of UKI Productions. To attend this “first of its kind” event, visit www.equusfoundation.org/fete or contact Lynn Coakley at equus@equusfoundation.org or (203) 259-1550.
Fete Cheval Etoile Fast Facts
Date/Time:
Friday, March 8, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
Location:
The Gallery/Wellington Club, Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, 3400 Equestrian Club Road, Wellington, Florida 33414
Co-Chairs:
Jenny Belknap Kees, Ellen Crown & Elizabeth Press
Honorary Committee:
Jenny Belknap Kees & Tim Kees, Katharine & Mark Bellisimo, Bobbie Braun, Flavia Callari, Carolyn & Tim Carlson, Mary & Mike Carpenter, Jane Forbes Clark, Ellen & Dan Crown, Gregory W. Gingery, Becky & David Gochman, Catherine & Steven Herman, Stephanie & John Ingram, Elizabeth Johnson, Patricia Keenan & Lawrence D’Addario, Marylou D’Addario & Sean Kennedy, Lisa & Robert Lourie, Victoria Lowell, Julie & Rick Mitchell, Caroline Moran, Celene & Marc Oken, Angela & Chris Paradysz, Dr. Betsee Parker, Elizabeth & Clifford Press, Kathryn L. Quirk & Denise P. Quirk, Juliet & Sam Reid, Jennifer & Eric Ross, Clea & Kurt Soderlund, Joan & John Toffolon, Visse Wedell & Thomas Schweizer.
Reservations:
Tables of six start at $2,500. A limited number of individual seats will be available at $250 per person on request. Visit www.equusfoundation.org/fete.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
Dr. Betsee Parker – Huntland, Spy Coast Farm, The Crown Family
PLATINUM SPONSORS
Split Rock Farm, Visse Wedell
GOLD MEDAL SPONSORS
Mary & Michael Carpenter, Equestrian Sport Productions, Becky & David Gochman, Bruce Hlavacek & Dr. Jen Hlavacek, Stephanie & John Ingram, Louisburg Farm, Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Press
SILVER MEDAL SPONSORS
Jane Forbes Clark, The Carlson Family, Marylou D’Addario Kennedy & Sean Kennedy, Patricia Keenan & Lawrence D’Addario, Mr. & Mrs. Walter T. Kees
BRONZE MEDAL SPONSORS
Fairfield Equine Associates, Gregory W. Gingery, Sydney Keith, P. F. Farm, Quiet Corner Farm, Jennifer & Eric Ross, Juliet & Sam Reid, William & Shirley Reilich, The Toffolon Family, Wrenwood Farms
CORPORATE PARTNERS
Animal Planet, Ariat International, Nestle Waters North America
The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, also known as Horse Charities of America, is dedicated to improving the quality of life of horses, advancing the use of horses to enrich the lives of people in need and educating the public about the horse’s unique ability to empower, teach and heal. What started as a local effort is now a nationwide campaign on behalf of horses. The Foundation accomplishes its mission by providing financial support to horse-related charities across the United States; connecting a network of equine organizations to equine enthusiasts; providing scholarships to reward volunteer service on behalf of horses, and conducting information outreach to educate the public about horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact The EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: equus@equusfoundation.org, Website: www.equusfoundation.org.
Wellington, FL – March 3, 2013 – Five talented participants of the 2013 College Preparatory Invitational (CPI) were recognized for their entries to the CPI Journalistic Photography contest. Katherine Martin, Margaret Bresee, Talula Alascio, Kendall Clarkson, and Kate Eagleton were awarded $100 in scholarship money per winning entry along with a Dover Saddlery gift certificate, and will each see their winning photographs published in the 2014 College Preparatory Invitational (CPI) Program. Scholarship prize money was increased this year thanks to the generosity of annual sponsor Charles Owen.
Entrants submitted photographs, taken over the three days of the 2013 CPI, in eight categories: CPI Horse Athlete, CPI Sponsor, CPI Spectators, CPI Event Seminar, CPI Riders, Friends (candid), CPI Riders in Action, and Miscellaneous. All entrants were participants in the 2013 CPI.
In addition to announcing the 2013 contest winners, the CPI also recognized its top performing equine athletes. Bella, owned by Kelly Goodman, was the Best Performance Dressage Horse recipient and Leo, owned by Michelle Alvarez of Act 2 Acres Farm, was awarded Best Performance Hunt Seat Horse honors. Both horses received coolers donated by The Clothes Horse for their exceptional performance during the CPI.
CPI Event Seminar Category of Pierre Jolicoeur – Katherine Martin
Katherine Martin, class of 2014 of El Paso, TX, won both the CPI Horse Athlete and CPI Event Seminar categories of the photo contest. Martin captured presenter Pierre Jolicoeur’s animated discussion of how to ride a course and enjoyed his thorough and educational play-by-play of the best way to approach foreign courses. Martin also snapped a winning image of Bella, this year’s top performing dressage horse.
Martin plans to pursue a career in photography and communications and was excited to further develop connections she made last year at the 2012 CPI. “When I came back this year, the trainers and colleges were excited to see me back. Figuring out which colleges have the best communications programs as well as great riding programs is very important to me, and the trainers [at CPI] were able to help me out,” Martin stated.
“I was also able to really experience what it will be like in college equestrian competitions. It opened my eyes to a different showing experience, which I think every rider needs,” Martin continued.
CPI Rider Receiving Ribbon or Prize Category – Talula Alascio
Talula Alascio, class of 2014 of Annapolis, MD, came in first place in the CPI Spectator and CPI Rider categories.
Alascio captured one rider’s joy after receiving a blue ribbon. “It was a really big deal to her to win. It was one of the few shows that her mom had been able to attend and she was really happy about winning,” Alascio described.
Photography has been a hobby of Alascio’s that developed from classes she takes at school. “I was so happy to win two categories. I didn’t expect to win at all! I was so excited,” Alascio smiled.
2013 was Alascio’s first year at the CPI and the junior in high school welcomed the learning experience. “I’m starting to look into equine studies programs. The coaches and schools I spoke with at the College Expo gave me lots of information and told me what I would need to know and how to decide what things I can go into with horses,” Alascio commented.
CPI Spectators Category – Talula Alascio
Alascio was more than satisfied with her overall experience with CPI after a successful day of riding and learning. “I met some really neat people and it was nice to get a feel for what college I want to attend and what the riding program would be like. I did well showing too and it was just a really fun experience!” Alascio concluded.
Kendall Clarkson, class of 2015 of San Diego, CA, earned first place in the Friends category after capturing several of her friends enjoying the competition at the CPI. “Photography is something I’ve done as a hobby, just for fun. When I heard about the scholarship program, I thought ‘Why not?!’” Clarkson commented. “I looked at the other winning pictures and it made me so grateful to win because there were a lot of other great photographers,” she continued.
Clarkson enjoyed her first year of the CPI, which provided her plenty of food for thought on her future in equestrian competition as well as her education. Clarkson attended the College Expo, where she had the chance to talk to coaches and explore her equine higher education options. “I want to do something with horses, but I want to make sure it’s something I can support myself with. [An equine studies program] is something I’m looking into. It would be an added bonus to be able to ride in college as well,” Clarkson stated.
Friends Together at CPI Category – Kendall Clarkson
Kate Eagleton, class of 2015 of Miami, FL, was awarded first place in the CPI Rider in Action category with her photo “Rain or Shine.” Eagleton had planned on taking pictures throughout the day, but due to inclement weather, kept her camera tucked away. She quickly snapped just five pictures while trying to stay dry after showing―one of them turned out to be her winning shot.
“It was a lucky shot! I was thrilled to win,” Eagleton explained. “It made me realize I could pursue photography as well if I wanted to.”
Eagleton is another first-year participant, and was eager to soak up the incredible experience offered to aspiring collegiate riders at the CPI. “It’s so cool to be in an atmosphere with all the college riding teams, meet coaches, and experience what [collegiate competition] would actually be like,” Eagleton stated.
CPI Rider in Action category – Kate Eagleton – “Rain or Shine”
“I definitely want to do equine studies or equine business management. The CPI helped me learn about a lot of new colleges that I’ve never heard of and it was great to talk to coaches as well,” Eagleton concluded.
Meggie Bresee, class of 2014 of San Diego, CA, topped the CPI Sponsor category as well as the Miscellaneous category.
For her sponsor photograph, she explained, “Going to CPI really helped me to realize not only all of the various options that I personally have for continuing the equestrian aspect of my life through college, but also that there are many different opportunities for every involvement level that each individual wants to continue in the next four years after high school. That is why I wanted to represent each of the sponsors and colleges that attended the CPI horse show. Because each of them is different and all of them will conform to an individual in a different way, making it possible for everyone to know their options and decide which road will lead to the most opportunities for their future.”
CPI Sponsor Signage or Presence Category – Meggie Bresee
About her experience at the CPI, Bresee said, “I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and I am so happy that I was one in the handful of people from all over the country that was blessed with the opportunity to attend. Before I went to the show and talked to so many colleges and universities, I hadn’t a clue about what I truly wanted my future to be like in college. Now I am so much more confident that I have an idea of how I want the next few years to play out.”
Honorable mention photographer Caroline Johnson, class of 2013 of Julian, NC, will receive a $50 gift certificate to Dover Saddlery.
The College Preparatory Invitational Scholarship Fund would like to congratulate these winners and thank everyone for participating!
About the College Preparatory Invitational
The mission of the CPI is to prepare and educate student riders in grades 8-12 about the format of college equestrian competition, encourage academics and horsemanship, and to provide the riders with resources to create their desired college equestrian experience. The show is specifically geared to promote college recruitment of equestrians by providing the opportunity for coaches and potential students to meet in person. The College Preparatory Invitational Horse Show is rooted in the belief that equestrian talent, not finances, should dictate a rider’s opportunity to be a part of a collegiate team.
CPI Miscellaneous Category – Meggie Bresee
Along with the competition, the CPI offers seminars and question & answer sessions during the show. Riders and their families heard about the college equestrian experience and familiarized themselves with the different associations that govern collegiate riding. There were also a number or College and Universities present at the CPI to distribute literature and introduce the academic and riding opportunities, including scholarships, offered at their respective institutions.
Wellington, FL – January 20, 2013 – Susan Stickle has covered dressage and jumpers from the London Olympics to The World Equestrian Games to the World Cup. Her keen eye and impeccable timing make her a favorite among show managers around the world. So when it was time to choose a photographer for the World Dressage Masters CDI5* Palm Beach Jan. 24-26, show organizer Noreen O’Sullivan of Wellington Classic Dressage chose veteran photographer Sue Stickle.
“Sue is the epitome of a great show photographer,” O’Sullivan said. “There was no doubt in my mind that she would be covering the World Dressage Masters again this year.”
And Stickle is pleased to return. “I am so honored to be back at the 2013 World Dressage Masters and, once again, it is so exciting to have this much talent right in my backyard,” she said. “I am looking forward to a fantastic competition at a stunning venue. John Flanagan, Noreen O’Sullivan and the show management team here do such an outstanding job in transforming the Brandon Equestrian Center into a world-class facility for the Masters.”
December 1, 2012 — New York, NY – New York’s QUAD Cinema, IMA Studios, WFLF Humanion Films and The Triumph Project are proud to present the provocative new documentary Saving America’s Horses: A Nation Betrayed, produced, written and directed by filmmaker Katia Louise.
Featuring revealing interviews with distinguished veterinarians, trainers, academics, investigators, policymakers and members of the equine community, including Paul Sorvino, Linda Gray, Tippi Hedren, and Willie Nelson, the film addresses a question that recently prompted the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, to threaten to “punch out” a reporter who asked him if “any changes need to take place in the system in terms of safeguarding America’s wild and domestic horses.”
Louise and her organization, the Wild for Life Foundation, ask the same question in her investigation of the economic, environmental, public health and ethical issues surrounding the slaughter of both wild and domestic horses for their meat. As she notes, the cost of round up and removal of wild horses from the public lands and holding them long term continues to increase (now budgeted at more than $40 million a year).
To see the winning photo online, visit: 
