An artist visits Hustai National Park in Mongolia and takes part in the reintroduction project of the wild Przewalski horses, or Wind Horses as they are known by Mongolians. A reflection on the story of humans and horses in the wilderness, illustrated with 36 original colour paintings. Searching for her place in the world, she finds company with wild horses and explores the interplay between the herd and the lone wolf.
“I slipped across the grasses, becoming one with the trees and rocks. Sometimes, they passed so close I could have reached out my hand to skim their hides, the ribs, the last of their tattered winter coats.”
“It was natural then that I’d made my way here, having been affected and altered by horses throughout my life.”
An excerpt of this work was published in Travelers’ The Best Travel Writing 2009, under the title, “In a Place of Wind”.
Thanks to Library Thing and Petra Books for this review copy!
Erika Connor’s “An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” is more than just a travelogue; it’s a captivating immersion into the Mongolian wilderness and the cultural reverence for the wild Przewalski horse. The “Wind Horses,” as they are called by the locals, are the focus of both Connor’s artistic journey and the reintroduction project she participates in at Hustai National Park.
The Wind Horse is a Buddhist concept depicting the soul. A winged horse with a flaming jewel on its back is seen on Tibetan prayer flags flying in the wind from the highest mountain tops. It is also portrayed on the Mongolian coat of arms. The Mongolians have a word, khiimori. that is difficult to translate, but it is said to represent the Wind Horse and embodies the human soul, a life force.
The book follows Connor’s firsthand experience volunteering with the Wind Horses in Hustai National Park. Connor’s narrative is rich with vivid descriptions, transporting the reader to the vast grasslands and under the boundless Mongolian sky. You’ll feel the wind whipping through your hair, sense the sun warming your skin, and smell the earthy scent of the steppe as you journey alongside her. Readers with a passion for art will find Connor’s experience particularly engaging. She details her artistic process as she attempts to capture the essence of the wild horses and the nomadic culture surrounding them.
I had been here on the edge of unknown for three days now, on the shoreline of fifty thousand hectares of steppeland.
…a raven swooped by on my right, so close I could see the gloss of his blue-black feathers and the glint of his eye. What came back to me again and again was the gaze of animals. In that gaze was the wordless kinship with the original life source. It seemed observer and observed were the same.
The winds yanked the handle of the painted door out of my hands and I stumbled out of my ger, hitting my head on the doorframe. I wondered if there was a Mongolian saying about starting your day like this.
There was always the feeling of odyssey before getting on a horse, a suspension of time and certainty, lifting the feet, leaving the earth.
Through vivid descriptions and evocative storytelling, readers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters—from nomadic herders to skilled artisans—each contributing to the tapestry of Mongolia’s cultural landscape. This adds another layer to the story, creating a well-rounded picture of the region and its people.
One of the book’s most striking aspects is its exploration of the symbiotic relationship between art and nature. As the author delves deeper into the Mongolian wilderness, she finds inspiration in the untamed beauty of the landscape, channeling its energy into their own creative pursuits. Whether painting the sweeping vistas of the Gobi Desert or capturing the spirit of the wild horses that roam the steppe, the author’s passion for her craft shines through on every page.
But Connor’s true strength lies in capturing the essence of the human-horse connection so deeply ingrained in Mongolian culture. She weaves together personal anecdotes with insights into the nomadic way of life, where horses are not just companions, but vital partners in survival.
Moreover, “An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” offers profound insights into the enduring spirit of the Mongolian people. Through encounters with local communities and intimate conversations with herders, the author uncovers the resilience and resourcefulness that define Mongolian culture. From the warmth of traditional hospitality to the profound reverence for nature, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the values that unite this ancient civilization.
The book is beautifully complemented by Connor’s original paintings (36 in total), which bring the landscape and the wild horses to life. These illustrations aren’t mere decorations; they serve as an extension of the narrative, offering a visual window into the soul of the Mongolian wilderness.
Thoughts:
While not explicitly mentioned, it seems the book would be best enjoyed by those with an interest in conservation efforts. Connor’s involvement in the Przewalski horse reintroduction project adds a layer of purpose to the narrative. However, the book is heavily weighted towards the artistic side of the project, with detailed descriptions of the landscape and the horses themselves. Readers seeking a more scientific approach to the reintroduction project might want to look elsewhere.
Since the book includes illustrations, it might be more enjoyable in a physical format to fully appreciate the artwork alongside the text.
“An Artist Among the Wind Horses of Mongolia” is a perfect read for anyone who loves a good travelogue, has a passion for horses, or simply appreciates a well-written story about nature and cultural connection. It’s a testament to the power of art to bridge cultures and inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.
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