With The Mustanger, Paul Wylie remembers a scene he witnessed as a working cowboy. When this sculpture was first displayed at the museum in 1990, Wylie explained it recalls his experience herding cattle in the Guadalupe Mountains between Carlsbad, New Mexico and El Paso, Texas. 
 
“The mountains were filled with mustangs,” Wylie retells, “and after regular work was done, the cowboys would go round up some of them because most were better horses than the cowboys were riding.”
 
The mustang or feral horse has a complex history. They are descended from Spanish horses brought to the Americas in the 16th century, which mixed over time with multiple breeds and herds. Mustangs have been federally protected in the United States since 1971. Today, their survival requires a managed balance between their number and the natural resources they need to live.
 
Take a moment to look closely at the horses' faces and positions as they flee a perceived danger. 
 
Look also at the rider's expression and body language. 
 
Imagine the sounds and the dust. 
 
Imagine the sunset at the end of this workday.
 
Put yourself in the scene and notice what catches your attention.

Share your voice to help the Museum create the next long-term exhibition from the Diamond M Collection when it returns in 2024 to the Diamond M galleries. Your responses will be used to explore possible exhibition themes and artworks for future display. 
 
Completing a short survey by clicking here. 
Snap a selfie with your favorite piece and tag it to #museumTTYOU.