Like many eastern Washingtonians, I had driven by "Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies" dozens of times and planned to stop for a closer look "someday." Well, someday was March 16, 2026. The parking lot was empty. I looked for an informational placard, but there are none... they were removed or vandalized. Wikipedia has a nice article about this artwork, however; check it when you get home.
I scrambled up the trail (steep and loose-rocky as described). I love that many of the horses are Appaloosas, with stars and moons for spots on their haunches. I was dismayed (though not surprised) to see graffiti on some of them.
How I would love to see the work completed as it was envisioned!
Comments
Love the backlit photo. Also can't see the graffiti that way!
Posted by:
Maddy on Mar 17, 2026 04:25 PM