Kimerlee Curyl

'Wild at Heart', Wild Horses & Western Landscape Black & White Photography

2009

Loving everything horse from the moment she could breathe, the unfolding of Kimerlee Curyl's life thus far makes perfect sense. The Hollywood dream moved her west from Minnesota but it was the heart of a horse that changed everything.

Having worked on both sides of the camera, Curyl has the natural ability of capturing emotion. She delivers imagery that is unique, dramatic and evocative, emphasizing graceful lines, rich textures and a view of the horse not done before. The intimate connection she captures leaves the viewer imagining their very breath on your face. Curyl’s style of photography is her own and it is that vision that has become increasingly recognizable. She has traveled the globe capturing the essence and spirit of stunning horses. Yet the allure of raw, wild, untouched beauty, rugged terrain and the elements along with the challenge of finding wild horses and the patience for them to trust her is the oxygen to her soul.

Curyl’s work reflects passion, purpose and is fused with environmental consciousness. Dedicated to the cause and these works since 2004, her hope is to inspire others, not only to appreciate the beauty of these rich creatures, but to take an interest in helping preserve their place on this land. Curyl’s imagery has been donated many times over to organizations focusing on rescue and preservation efforts. Much time, talent and ideas have influenced others to care, to photograph and get involved with the issue and current climate these American icons are facing.

Curyl lives in the beautiful valley of Santa Ynez, California, with two horses, a paint mare named Sequoia and a young newly adopted wild mustang el Regalo. She is represented by one of the country’s largest fine art publishers, many prestigious galleries, along with countless installations, private collections globally as well as celebrity collectors. Curyl’s work has been used in numerous advertising campaigns and product branding. Most importantly, it has become a small voice for those who don’t have one, our remaining wild horses.

"Wild Mustangs. Without them, the great West was not possible," Curyl says of her chosen subjects. "We traveled, explored and built this land by holding onto their manes and riding the spirit of their hearts. We can honor that gift by being their voice. These beautiful legends, magnificent symbols of freedom and grace are being stripped from their homes, families torn apart and an icon will soon be lost forever. It is my hope to not only celebrate the beauty and magnificence of these creatures but to help them. They are a living breathing history museum, a vital element in our heritage, to our ecosystem and to our humanity. To lose them would be a tragically irresponsible disrespect to our past, present and future. Art has a voice."

Find original Kimerlee Curyl photography on 1stDibs.

(Biography provided by Sorelle Gallery)