Horses of the Northern Plains were painted with pigments drawn from plants and earth, believed to create a spiritual shield. War ponies were so vital that they were recognized as the Horse Nation—sacred brothers possessing their own spirit, language, and destiny.

The War Pony Project is a series of artworks honoring their importance and history. I partner with Native Americans of the Horse Tribes, who paint a horse on their reservation using traditional methods. I then photograph the animal, capturing the dignity, spirit, speed, and pride of the war pony. Upon returning to my studio, I complete the work by removing corral backgrounds and visual distractions, painting in a clean, contemporary setting that allows the subject to stand alone.

“Crow War Pony-1” and “Sioux War Pony-1” are in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.

Thank You for viewing my work.

Brady Willette

Represented by Tanner Trading | Park City, Utah