For National Nonprofit Day, the Texas artist highlights how her work helps support the nonprofit sanctuary she founded.

August 17, 2026
In recognition of National Nonprofit Day, Texas artist Mel Auberty is shining a light on the connection between art and advocacy — and the unusual way her life as an artist helps support the horses and donkeys who inspire her work.

Known for her large-scale, expressionistic Blue Horse paintings, Auberty has spent decades exploring the equine form, movement and spirit, but her relationship with horses extends far beyond the canvas.

Auberty is the founder of Blue Horse Sanctuary, a nonprofit equine sanctuary near Glen Rose, Texas, providing a permanent home and compassionate care for horses and donkeys in need. Since founding the sanctuary, Auberty has donated 100% of the income from her equine art directly to Blue Horse Sanctuary.

To learn more about Blue Horse Sanctuary and see its mission in action, watch this short video: melauberty.com/bhs

For Auberty, painting and equine welfare have become two parts of the same mission.

“It is my hope that my paintings and sculptures will channel positive energy and passion, as well as mobilize public support for equine welfare,” says Auberty.

That connection is especially visible during 2026’s Year of the Horse,
as Auberty presents a major body of work celebrating more than 25 years of artistic exploration of horses. Her Year of the Horse exhibition features paintings, drawings, and sculptures, while also bringing greater attention to equine welfare and the work of Blue Horse Sanctuary.

National Nonprofit Day, observed annually on August 17, recognizes the work of nonprofit organizations and the people whose time, resources and talents help advance their missions.

For Auberty, that mission happens one painting — and one horse — at a time.

Learn more about Mel Auberty: melauberty.com

Learn more about Blue Horse Sanctuary: bluehorsesanctuary.org