Deanna Montero: Sculpting the Path to Better Horsemanship

In this episode, Paula Curtis sits down with equine sculptor and educator Deanna Montero to explore how art can deepen our understanding of horses. Deanna shares how her journey with sculpture has transformed her horsemanship, helping her see, feel, and understand equine anatomy in a whole new way. Together they discuss how studying structure leads to softer communication, how energy and relaxation influence movement, and how creativity bridges the gap between observation and feel. This conversation reminds us that awareness is an art form—and that both sculpting and riding ask us to slow down, listen, and connect with presence and curiosity. Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 | Introduction to Horsemanship and Sculpture 05:56 | The Journey of Understanding Anatomy 11:04 | Anatomy and Its Impact on Riding 16:36 | The Role of Nosebands in Horse Training 21:27 | Observing the Whole Horse 23:29 | The Complexity of Riding Simulators 25:26 | Becoming an Educated Advocate for Horses 26:21 | Observing Energy and Tension in Horses 28:45 | The Importance of Self-Reflection in Riding 30:19 | Understanding Feel and Energy in Riding 32:51 | Artistic Expression in Equestrianism 35:20 | The Role of Playfulness in Horse Training 37:35 | Integrating Anatomy and Art in Equestrian Education 39:45 | Overcoming Fear Through Creative Expression 42:39 | The Process of Sculpting and Self-Assessment 45:31 | Podcast Outro + Music Resources ☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket ☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership ☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/ ☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman ☆ Follow Us On YouTube --> https://www.youtube.com/@ArtoftheHorseman ☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman