[Glen Rose, TX] Artist Mel Auberty is preparing to unveil her most significant body of work. The inspiration for her practice is derived from the horses who live at the sanctuary she founded over a decade ago. On February 17, 2026, Auberty will celebrate the Year of the Horse with a solo exhibition at Gallery One Two Three in the Dallas Design District. The show, marking 25 years of her artistic exploration into equine form, movement, and spirit, will feature large-scale Blue Horse paintings, woodcut prints, sketches, and sculptures—and most of all, the stories of the horses who inspire them.
Please see below – Mel has started a series of portraits for the horses of Blue Horse Sanctuary. Each portrait in this collection is a tribute to the soul and resilience of the sanctuary’s herd at Blue Horse Sanctuary in Glen Rose, Texas. Since its founding in 2015, the sale of Auberty’s equine art has gone directly to the care of these horses. Once helpless and unwanted, they now live in a compassionate, loving environment where they are free to live out their lives in peace.
Please visit bluehorsesanctuary.org for more information.
About Mel Auberty
Mel Auberty is a Texas-based artist known for her expressionistic equine paintings, sculptures, and prints. Her work has been featured in various group and solo exhibitions and is included in many prestigious corporate and private collections. She is the founder of Blue Horse Sanctuary, a rescue and rehabilitation center for horses and donkeys.
Jazzy
Jazzy, a Bay Grade Quarter Horse born in November 1998, was rescued from severe neglect and rehabilitated after being seized by the Parker County Sheriff’s Office. Though she’s regained weight and is sound, her health will always need monitoring—but she remains deeply affectionate and loves being groomed and doted on.
Lucky
Lucky, a Paint gelding born in 2013, was surrendered in spring 2023. Once trained for mounted archery, Lucky never took to being a laid-back pleasure horse. Now retired at BHS, he’s a curious and confident presence in the herd—gentle with care and thriving in his new life.
Texas
Texas came to us from California in 2015, this handsome gelding ended up in a Texas kill pen before being saved at the last minute. After enduring serious injuries and a long recovery, Texas finally found solace at Blue Horse Sanctuary. Today, Texas is a shining example of healing and the power of second chances.
Anna
Anna, a 2005 Grade Quarter Horse dun mare, was surrendered after her owner passed away and has never been ridden, but adores being haltered, brushed, and loved on. Now thriving at the sanctuary, she enjoys a new life filled with human affection, equine companionship, and the freedom to just be a horse.
Gigi
Gigi, a Chestnut Quarter Horse born in 2009 and surrendered in 2018, came to Blue Horse deeply mistrustful and fearful of any human interaction or care. Thanks to consistent work, patience, and love, she has blossomed into a more confident mare who now enjoys open fields, friendship, and the safety of her forever home.
Batman
Born in 2019, Batman is a sorrel gelding with a winning pedigree who was bred for Futurity barrel racing but developed lameness during training and was retired to the Sanctuary by his owner. He’s an incredibly sweet and affectionate horse who loves people and quietly soaks up every bit of attention.
Freckles
Freckles is a 21-year-old grey mare rescued from the Kaufman feedlot in 2015 and was one of the first to find a home at WildWood Ranch. Known for her gentle spirit and snowy dappled coat, she’s a beloved part of the herd who thrives on both equine companionship and human connection—often bursting into joyful gallops on chilly days.
Year of the Horse Promo Video © Mel Auberty