Abigail Alstatt has always been captivated by horses and the world surrounding them. Growing up in the rural, high-elevation regions of the Intermountain West, she was immersed in the beauty of nature and the majestic ungulates of the area. Encouraged by her mother to explore and appreciate the magic of the natural world, Alstatt developed a deep inspiration for the environment around her.

As a child, without horses of her own, she channeled her passion into drawing, focusing particularly on Western working horses, which quickly became her favorite subject. Art became a powerful outlet for managing her adolescent emotions, providing her with a reflective and grounding practice that continues to shape her artistic journey.

After high school, Alstatt studied horsemanship at schools in California and Colorado before returning to the Great Basin. She remains a dedicated student of the horse, striving to develop a strong bond with her two horses while spending countless hours exploring the vast public lands and observing the wildlife within.

A self-taught Western artist, Abigail Alstatt works in both graphite and colored pencil. She was born in Elko, NV, and currently resides in Battle Mountain, NV.

There is something about the creatures of the west that ignites a spark deep in my soul, that inspires me to look deep into the natural world and therefore deeper into myself. Whether it be the roaming monarchs of the mountain or the loyal comrades of the high desert cowboy, the sense of life in each one of them cultivates a profoundly curious attraction. My art aims to express that sense of wonder and intrigue in a simple and expressive way that is rich in both fine detail and charm. I cannot contend with the type of majesty that nature herself offers, however, I strive for my interpretation to be beautiful and striking in a way that causes us to ponder ourselves.

My work is realistic and recognizable, offering an intimate feel to the scene. However look close and you will find rough marks and an abundance of hand produced texture. I place a strong focus on the life and soul that resides within my subject, leading to deep, expressive tones and a strong sense of dimension. Every mark, shadow, and shape is made with only the sharp end of a pencil, in the form that feels most fitting to the piece. The application of this simple medium makes for an uncomplicated and attractive sight that invites you to immerse yourself within it.