American Wild Horses

For more than a decade, I have traveled across the Western United States photographing wild mustangs—animals whose strength, resilience, and unbroken spirit mirror many of the ideals woven into the American identity. In their presence, we often see glimpses of who we hope to be, things we aspire to. My images invite viewers into a world few ever witness, celebrating their beauty and spirit, while also challenging us to think differently about their place on our public lands. The story of the American wild horses plays out against vast landscapes and breathtaking skies. It is inseparable from the story of these lands. From ancient horse fossils in the Wyoming badlands to the reintroduction of horses by early Spanish explorers, and the eventual rise of the free‑roaming mustangs, their story is one of endurance in the most difficult circumstances - they have become symbols for the ideal of freedom. Working in a minimalistic black‑and‑white palette, my goal with my wild horse photography is to bring to viewers the connections, and persistent resilience that define these rugged herds. Light, shadow, textures and the desert landscapes combined to reveal the profound bonds within the herd and the raw beauty of their world. This series presents the mustangs from the perspective of a fellow immigrant—seeing them not only as icons of freedom in this great country, but as mirrors reflecting our own longing for freedom, authenticity, and belonging. Be sure to subscribe to our channel and share with others! Explore more of my work and ongoing projects: https://www.mariamarriott.com Watch trailer for Horses, Unbroken Wild, the upcoming documentary film featuring my life and work:    • HORSES, UNBROKEN, WILD