She Travels With Horses: Gabriele Boiselle and the Arabian Horse
Today’s article is courtesy of Lisa Kemp, a writer in the equine industry and frequent STE reader.
Renowned equine photographer Gabriele Boiselle has trotted around the world for over three decades, oftentimes on the back of a horse. Trained as a journalist in her native Germany, the camera has been Gabriele’s primary tool in portraying spirited equines in tender moments and at the height of athletic exertion, but her horsey adventures started with a chance encounter while traveling in Egypt.
“Photographing the grey stallion Echnaton and the chestnut Ibn Ahktal at the El Zahraa Stud in Cairo meant the beginning of quite dramatic changes in my life. It was the meeting with these stallions that made me into an equestrian photographer,” she says.
While Gabriele has gone on to produce numerous photography books and calendars in the intervening years through her company, Edition Boiselle, she also combines her love of horses and travel in photoseminars, where she guides aspiring amateurs in how to discover a horse’s unique essence through the lens.
With the Jubilee (25th) anniversary of her calendar line next year, Gabriele has produced an extraordinary variety of calendars for 2010. Here via Sharing Travel Experiences, she’s shared some of her own travel experiences and the glorious Arabian horses that inspired her own journey to travel more – with horses, presented by month. You don’t have to be a horse lover to enjoy these stunning shots and stories and read Gabriele Boiselle’s thoughtful quotes. Who knows, it might inspire you to someday ride away into the sunset on your own magnificent steed!
February in California
There’s more than wine in California! California’s Santa Ynez Valley is home to many different breeds of horses, from Quarter Horses to American Saddlebreds to Friesians. And of course, the Arabians! Because the California climate allows grass to grow juicy and green and the hills provide strenuous exercise, it’s an ideal place to breed and raise horses. Many horse breeders, and the businesses that cater to and support the horse industry, have sprung up in the area, and while it’s only two hours from Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley is a world apart and a must-see detour.
Gabriele: “In this paradise is the generously designed Om El Arab Stud of Siggi Constanti and her daughter Janina. This young stallion, Om El Bellissimo, represents the stud’s breeding aim in an outstanding way.”
March in Egypt
Located in bustling Cairo, El Zahraa Stud is the breeding arm of the Egyptian Agricultural Organization (EAO), where they promote and preserve the pure Egyptian Arabian bloodlines. Although the stud’s current location dates to 1928 and was originally wide open space, these days it’s surrounded by high-rise buildings and is located 15 minutes from the airport. Inside the walls is truly an oasis for the horses, a respite from the frenetic traffic and constant activity of Cairo.
Gabriele: “Here is the stallion El Ragel (Shattwan x El Set) from the Egyptian State Stud of El Zahraa in full action. Who doesn’t know them yet, the photos against the yellow wall at the Egyptian State Stud of El Zahraa? Even on my first visit, this was the only place on the entire grounds where it was possible to let a horse run completely free.”
June in Germany
The German Ismer Stud is famous throughout Europe for its outstanding Arabian stallions. Initially the stud founded its breeding on the Marbach Stud bloodlines, crossing them with Polish performance horses. All their horses, whether mares or stallions, were sent to the race course in order to strengthen their lungs, tendons, and muscles. If you’re in the area, a visit to the animal park and Arab stud in Ströhen (just south of Bremen) is always worthwhile because the atmosphere there is absolutely unique.
Gabriele: “In the opinion of Dr. Niels Ismer, now third-generation director of the stud, the stallion Fabian (Wojslaw x Frygia) represents the ideal Arabian stallion and is currently the preferred sire at the stud.”
October in the Arabian Peninsula
This herd of Arabian horses lives on the Arabian peninsula, where their daily routine contrasts sharply from that of many European or American horses. From the daytime heat to the sand they lie on at night, the elements are their natural surroundings. The young colts are fed alfalfa hay, but the rest of their growing time is spent playing and mock-fighting with each other. I love how this photo illustrates the mystique of travel to this unique area of the world, where life is quite different from here at home.
Gabriele: “This picture of a herd was taken during a private shooting on the Arabian peninsula. I am only allowed to use it here without any indication of a name, but I am so fond of this motif that I felt simply compelled to include it in this calendar. Many people may find it rather harsh and severe to keep horses in this way, however for Arabian breeders in this land it is a basic requirement for later rearing and keeping.”
November in Morocco
Within the Arabian breed, black horses are particularly rare and coveted; some breeders even focus their entire programs on producing gorgeous black Arabians. This black stallion, Imperial Mashaar, is from the Royal Stud in Bouznika, Morocco, and was Reserve World Champion at the Salon du Cheval competition in Paris. Because of the Royal Stud’s commitment, their stud director has traveled throughout Europe and America to find the best mares, in order to produce the best classic black Arabians. Look at that amazing bridle worn by the stallion – the colours recall the vibrancy of the markets and souks of Marrakesh.
Gabriele: “In early Bedouin culture, the colour of a horse’s coat was of very special significance, and black horses were held in particularly high esteem. When a young foal was born, it was carefully examined on the firm belief that the colour and whorls of the hair coat reflected the individual character and future potential of a young horse.”
Want a calendar? We’ve got them!
Has your travel inspiration peaked at maximum with these killer photos? Gabriele has graciously donated two FOUR! of her 2010 Fascination Calendars as prizes to STE readers. All you need to do is comment on this post and leave your answer to one of the two following questions:
- If you’ve had a horse-inspired travel experience, tell us.
- If you haven’t had a horse-inspired travel experience, which one of the photos above speaks out to you the most? Why?
The Rules
It wouldn’t be a contest without the rules, right?
- Winners of this contest will be chosen at random from the final list of commenters. The decision of a winner as chosen by Sharing Travel Experiences is final.
- The editor of Sharing Travel Experiences reserves the right to forfeit any comment left here that violates the moderation policy or fails to answer one of the above questions.
- Commenters must provide valid contact information (email address) to be eligible to be contacted for their prize.
- Edition Boiselle, who will make delivery of the prizes, reserves the right for substitutions in the event of calendar unavailability.
- This contest is null and void should the contest violate the rules and regulations of your locale or region.
This contest expires Friday December 18th!
About the Calendar
And I quote:
Gabriele Boiselle’s 2010 ‘Fascination’ calendar showcases gorgeous Arabian horses from around the world, photographed during Gabriele’s visits to private breeding farms and studs. The 14-page calendar contains 12 full color images on high quality paper with a wire spiral binding for secure hanging; all images are suitable for framing after the year is over. At an oversized 62×59 cm, this super-large wall calendar is being offered in a new larger size for 2010, but at the same 2009 price. Includes an extra photo poster, with a 2010 overview and information about Gabriele’s photo trips. In English and German.
If You Can’t Wait
Dying for a calendar just now? It will make a travel-tastic Christmas gift. You can get your copy via Amazon UK (ships worldwide):
Want to have your own equine adventures abroad?
What are you waiting for? Travel More with our Special Offers
Get hands-on travel help from Donna, our travel concierge.
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:50 pm
As a travel writer, former Dressage trainer, owner of Arabian horses and general lifelong equine enthusiast, this article really hit home. What amazing photos Gabrielle produces – I would love to know what type of equipment she uses to get such clarity of the moments of movement.
In answer to the question: I have absolutely had horse-inspired travel moments. One of my favorites was fulfilling my childhood dream of visiting the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, where I was able to watch some of the most elegant, well-trained horses and riders in the world perform exercises to Baroque music. A must-visit for any horse and travel lover.
November 24th, 2009 at 5:13 am
I recently came across a book of Gabriele’s photography. Her photos are all so beautiful and really capture the emotions of the horses.
My horse inspired travel story was in Barbados. I went for a walk early one morning and found the local horse race track. The trainers were working with the horses and I followed a couple of trainers as they took a couple of horses to the beach. I watched the horses go into the ocean over their heads and swim. It was really amazing watching them in the water as the waves came over their heads. I wish I had my camera.
November 24th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Hi Megan,
Gabriele uses upper-end Nikon equipment, and shoots from a great distance with long lenses, typically 300mm and up, so the horse isn’t distorted. There is also a great deal of advance preparation, so that the few minutes she has to photograph each horse at his or her best are spent in 100% focus on the horse. If you’re interested in more about Gabriele, you can visit her website – she does in-person photoseminars (I went to the March 2008 one in Florida, was great and I learned a lot). There’s also a newsletter sign-up to receive info.
November 25th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
I really loved this post. Horses seem to be on my mind today.
I opened an old journal of mine which I started when I was 12 (we’re talking 38 years ago). It is a repository of all the info on a thoroughbred sire I adored back then, Alcimedes, sire of 3 of the Melbourne Cups here in Australia.
The absolute dream I had back then as a young girl was to visit Alcy as I called him. I used to write to the stud monthly, getting pictures, asking for horse hair (all of which I still have) and then to finally get to meet him at 19 after my mum had died, we moved from Australia to NZ.
The most incredible moment, driving up the drive of Trelawney Stud, Cambridge, meeting Jim Otway and him bringing out Alcimedes, a grand old boy of 26 (he died 2 years later). He was beautiful, almost black and a real character. I think he thought he was coming to meet some mares the look in his eye and his trot, amazing for such an old boy.
Anyways, only today I was reminisching about this meeting and I felt so blessed that I had met him back then, he was my first pin up boy!
Would love this beautiful calendar, it is simply stunning!
Warmest wishes
Lisa :^)
November 25th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
What inspirational photography! I love how movement and life are captured in these shots. Beautiful!
I am currently on a horse-inspired travel experience! I am presently in England for my MSc in Equine Science with one of my own dressage horses! I have always wanted to research the horse more, and be able to learn to approach the art of riding from a scientific perspective. I am learning so much, and am constantly being forced to push the boundaries on my perspectives and understandings of this animal.
I am thrilled to be able to take my own horse on this journey with me, and although not directly involved in my graduate studies, it’s interesting how I am observing and riding him in novel ways based on the experience and education I am receiving.
Great contest! Look forward to reading other people’s experiences!
November 25th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
First, those photographs are magnificent. Thank you for bringing them, let alone that calendar, to my attention.
Now – for horse-related travel experiences? I have to pick just one???
Okay, then. Here’s a doozy.
My husband’s network TV boss gave me a Churchill Downs press credential that allowed me to watch the 1983 Kentucky Derby from the rooftop of the old press box – right beside one of the spires.
When he took me up to the spot where I could watch the race – overlooking the Finish Line and the Derby’s Winner’s Circle — and gave me advice on how I should get there early and not move from the spot until after the race, I burst into tears.
He couldn’t understand why I was crying. He thought it was because I wasn’t looking forward to planting myself in one spot for an hour or more.
Little did he know that I’d never imagined that I’d ever get to watch the Derby except on TV. And here I was standing on prime real estate – even better and more exclusive, IMO, than the legendary Millionaire’s Row.
I did manage to blubber, “You just answered a little girl’s dream.” Or something like that.
I’m hoping I’m more articulate about it now.
But I’m not making any promises. 
December 4th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
I have always loved horses as have my sisters! My sister Sheri finally got her dream to raise Arabian Horses in Montana. But with hard times has been forced to sell her horses. They were amazing! It is so wonderful to be able to realize lifelong dreams and to see and support others who are doing it, better than we could have done it. I love the March in Egypt photo! He seems so happy that he can hardly contain the glee!
December 7th, 2009 at 2:08 am
WOW. I have been very moved by your pictures. I especially love the Morocco picture, is that a bridle or something native to that country? How is it used?
December 9th, 2009 at 4:14 am
Thanks for your interest in Gabriele Boiselle’s images! The black Arabian in the Morocco image is wearing a Bedouin halter that’s been converted to include a bit in his mouth, probably for a little more control since this is a stallion. Often Bedouin halters have a chain-link noseband, similar to a flat-link curb chain on an English bridle.
Arabians have beautiful, small heads with a pronounced ‘dish’ in the face and a large, liquid eye. To play up this breed trait, traditional headgear for Arabian horses is very colorful and highly decorated. The halters and bridles are usually made of wool, which was plentiful in nomadic desert cultures. They are also typically decorated with beads, tassels, and cowrie shells.
Here’s a link to some images of traditional Bedouin halters: http://www.arabhorsestore.com/store/halters.htm
December 9th, 2009 at 6:00 pm
Beautiful photos,LOVE those Arabians, so photogenic!
December 11th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Great photos, Arabians look beautiful from every angle!
December 13th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Simply stunning photography,glorious images of beautiful horses. The feeling of movement, the gorgeous clarity of the images is a testament to the photographic skills and incredible eye of Gabriele Boiselle. It’s a joy to view the work of this talented artist. She captures the very essence of the Arabian Horse.
December 22nd, 2009 at 3:03 pm
[...] the winners for the Gabrielle Boiselle calendar contest winners. As you’ll see on the She Travels with Horses article, there were some amazing anecdotes and stories shared, all horse and travel inspired. [...]