Because of the Horse

My passion has always been to cultivate meaningful connections between horses and their people, connections that transform not only the partnership but also the individual. Through quality horsemanship, I strive to create experiences that are inspiring, joyful, and deeply fulfilling, no matter the discipline or type of horse.

Since 1994, I have been dedicated to teaching and training, guided by the wisdom of extraordinary horses and horsemen alike. Their insights, combined with the profound lessons horses teach us every day, have shaped my belief that true horsemanship begins within. When we change our mindset, regulate our emotions, and focus our intentions, we unlock new possibilities for growth, both for ourselves and our horses.

I want to make the world a better place. I have always had a passion for helping horses and their people in a meaningful way. Horses, in their own unique way, bring us back to the moment, making presence not optional but essential. In learning to work with them through feel and understanding, they teach us about ourselves. It is a fusion of life concepts applied to the horse, making us better people along the way.

Lessons on life, brought to you by the horse.

Together, we can harness the wisdom of horses to create a brighter future.

Better People. Better Horses. Better World.

I truly appreciate you being here,

Paula Curtis
Founder, Art Of The Horseman
Contact: [email protected]

I believe that riding is not just about mastering techniques. It is a journey of self-discovery and connection. My approach invites students to look beyond the mechanics of riding and explore the profound lessons horses teach about presence, awareness, and self-understanding.

I teach because I want riders to experience what is truly possible. When you take the time to understand your horse, what motivates him, what sparks his interest, you begin to see how your own energy, emotions, and mindset influence the partnership. Riding is about feel, communication, and partnership. It is about stepping into the moment with your horse and seeing the world through his perspective.

For me, working with horses is a mirror for personal growth. Horses respond to what is happening inside us, our thoughts, emotions, and intentions. By learning to focus, stay present, and align our inner state with our goals, riders discover a deeper level of connection not only with their horses but also with themselves. This process builds self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the ability to replace old patterns with intentional, mindful action.

My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that when you work with the horse’s mind, the body follows. I tailor my approach to the unique needs of each rider and horse, adapting exercises to fit the specific discipline, whether it is eventing, dressage, hunters, jumpers, or gymkhana. By clearly articulating concepts and designing personalized exercises, I help create meaningful and lasting change for my students.

My ultimate goal is to inspire independent thinking and personal growth. By helping riders understand their horses on a deeper level, I also help them better understand themselves. This self-awareness allows riders to troubleshoot challenges with curiosity and creativity, building confidence and resilience along the way.

My students have achieved success at local, regional, and national levels, but my focus goes far beyond competition. The true reward lies in the journey, cultivating feel, communication, and partnership while uncovering the powerful lessons horses have to teach.

Through a heart-centered approach, I guide riders toward meaningful shifts in both their horsemanship and their lives. Horses teach us to be present, to trust the process, and to connect authentically with them and with ourselves. This journey does not just create better riders. It creates better people, opening the door to possibilities both in and out of the saddle.

For me, the path to success begins within. When riders learn to align their thoughts, emotions, and intentions, they discover not only the joy of true partnership with their horse, but also the limitless potential within themselves.