Horse, Wine & Art Show at Bridlewood - an Artistic Event ~ By, Charity Maness

When I think of art, I find that I typically think of paintings hanging in a gallery. Yet the creative and eclectic artists of the foothills that were showing their wares at this event were so much more than that...they were creators of incredible beauty.

After entering the parking area at the Bridlewood Horse, Wine & Art Event, I was quickly whisked away in a carriage-like trailer for humans to the top of the hill where the festivities began the minute my feet hit the ground. Greeted at the front with smiles and information galore (not to mention the souvenir wine glass for wine tasting) I headed into the event.

First stop, Corey West's art booth. Corey clearly did not confine her artistic skills to merely paint and canvas. She utilized surfaces that brought out the feel of the painting she was creating. Case in point an amazing 3' x 4' (approx) old wooden door which she had graced with the image of a horse, somewhat weathered and mystical. The art did not stop there. There was silk painted art by Vonnie Muniain, watercolors by Sandy Jacobsen, face painting, clay figurines, hand made jewelry, t-shirt designs, and so much more.


A few steps from the art booths was a representative, appropriately and classically dressed, from the California Dressage Society.

With empty wine glass in hand I wandered further in search of the greatly anticipated wine tasting portion of the event..lo and behold there was booth after booth of wine tasting delights! From Metate Vineyards to Ironstone. And as with all Calaveras wine, each sip was heavenly! If wine was not your style the Copperopolis Lions Club had you covered with beer, soda and water, and if you were especially nice to them they would cool you down with a fine mist spray and a bit of cooling air from their fan.

The horse shows in the arena carried on throughout the day. I was fortunate enough to catch the Pas de Duex, performed by Allison and Cher. A well choreographed display to a fun eclectic collection of music. Also I viewed the quartet known as The Stanislaus Quadrille Team. This team included Michelle Borges, Mary Lambert, Natalie Kid and Allison Kid. These young girls, clad in tie dye (their horses too) completed a routine to music that was produced long before their time "the Age of Aquarius." When asked why they chose that song, one replied because it matched the tye dyed theme, whereas one of the mothers replied that it tied in with "peace, equality and understanding."

If food was your desire Patty Mosley of Mosleys Memphis Sauce was proudly selling her famous pulled pork sandwiches and dancing to the rhythm of the music, as were little tykes.

Seeking solace from the Copperopolis sun I wandered into the 'barn' where I was awarded with visions of equine beauty. It was evident that the owners of the horses took great care with their animals as they were all groomed and patiently awaiting a loving stroke from a passerby.

The event, hosted by Bridlewood Equestrian Center, also highlighted a dinner to support Harmony Ranch, an equestrian instructional facility for special needs and high risk youth. For more on Harmony Ranch please click HERE to read a previous article about Harmony Ranch on the Copper Gazette.

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