“From Achilles’ weeping chargers to Don Quixote’s Rocinante, the horses of myth and literature are alive and thriving in our neighborhoods,” according to equine photographer Vanessa Wright whose exhibit, “The Literary Horse: When Legends Come to Life” will be at the Logan County Public Library.

Pairing pictures of horses and riders of today with quotes from great literary classics of the past, the upcoming exhibit will showcase Wright’s equine photography for the month of February.

Highlighting equestrian disciplines such as carriage driving, show-jumping, and jousting, The Literary Horse will also provide a literary tour of classics ranging from Shakespeare and King Arthur to Jane Austen and Emily Dickenson. Photography models include first-time and experienced riders along with Olympic champions and Special Olympic equestrians. The literature showcased in the exhibit will be on display and available for checkout so families can follow the adventures of their favorite works. The exhibit will also feature area equine and equestrian programs, such as Dream Riders and the 4H Horse Club, so visitors can contact program organizers and become involved as riders, supporters, or volunteers.

The Literary Horse is currently touring rural and metropolitan schools and libraries and more than 100,000 people have viewed the exhibit since its debut in May 2008.

“We were on the waiting list for over a year to get this exhibit,” said librarian Monica Edwards. “Logan County loves their horses. Recognizing that, and also in honor of Kentucky being chosen as the site for the World Equestrian Games 2010, we thought it was well worth the wait.”

Exhibit photographer Vanessa Wright added, “I hoped these images would help people see themselves in the great books and inspire them to live their own legends. Heroes aren’t just people who lived long ago– they are our neighbors, our friends, our family members, and ourselves. The beauty, heart, and spirit we admire in legendary horses exist in our pasture pets, school ponies, service horses, and competition partners. Together, we face challenges as thrilling and as extraordinary as the quests of old. After all, every great story, at its heart, reflects the greatness that is already within us.”

The Literary Horse: When Legends Come to Life will be on display from February 1 to February 28 at the Logan County Public Library in Russellville. The exhibit is free and open to the public. For a booklist or more information about the exhibit and artist Vanessa Wright contact the library at 270-726-6129 or visit www.TheLiteraryHorse.com.