Issue No. 1, November, 2025
EMSA, An Introduction
Welcome to the Equine Museum of Science and Art (EMSA)! EMSA is a gateway to exploring the horse through immersive experiences that blend art, science, and imagination. Based in the Pacific Northwest, EMSA is in its startup and fundraising stage, creating a world where the story of the horse can be felt, seen, and understood by all. Our mission is to make the wonder of horses, and the science that reveals how they sense, think, and connect, accessible to everyone.
Step into the world of EMSA and walk through a forest filled with mythical horses from around the world, each one illuminated in color and legend. See the world through a horse’s eyes, discovering how they perceive light, shadow, and color in ways different from our own. Stand among a herd of wild horses, surrounded by sound and motion, feeling the rhythm of the herd move as one. Every experience is designed to spark curiosity and compassion, reminding us that the bond between humans and horses is both ancient and alive.
This coming summer, our mobile museum will hit the road, bringing horse art and science experiences to communities, festivals, and family events across the region.
Visit emsahorsemuseum.org for updates, upcoming events, and concept art renderings of what’s to come. Together, we are building a place where imagination, understanding, and the spirit of the horse come to life.
Science Spotlight
Researchers in Denmark and the UK are using computer pattern recognition to study how horses express emotions through their faces and ears. By training computers to recognize tiny movements captured on video, they hope to better understand how horses feel and improve their welfare and communication with people. The project is led by teams at Aalborg University, the University of Copenhagen, and the University of Lincoln in England.
More Equine Science News
Scientists with the USDA Agricultural Research Service in Oregon found that grazing can actually help prevent wildfires. In their study, Devyn Orr, Jonathan Bates, and Kirk Davies tested light, moderate, and high grazing by cattle in Wyoming big sagebrush steppe and discovered that moderate to high grazing reduced grass buildup and fire spread—especially in dry years. The effect was strongest in open grass areas and less noticeable where shrubs covered more than 18 percent of the land.
Did You Know?
Spiral staircases in old firehouses were designed to keep curious horses from climbing upstairs after the smell of food or their favorite firefighters.
Horsin’ Around: Fun & Games
Add your own creative touch to the drawing by choosing the horse’s color, mane style, and markings
Horse Trivia
Which famous racehorse from the 1970s was nicknamed “Big Red,” set records that still stand today, and had a heart estimated to be nearly three times the size of an average horse’s? (11 letters)
Horse Jokes
What do you call a horse that’s not wearing a saddle? (Neigh-ked.)
Horse-o-scopes
- Scorpio: Mysterious and magnetic, you’re the dark horse who always knows where the water is — others follow your lead without even realizing it.
- Sagittarius: Saddle up, wild one — adventure is your middle name and the universe just handed you the reins!
- Capricorn: You’re the workhorse with secret sparkle — slow and steady may win the race, but you’re out here building the whole arena.
- Aquarius: You’re the cosmic trailblazer with hay in your hair and genius in your gait — no fence can hold your imagination.
- Pisces: Dreamy and soft-hearted, you gallop through the clouds — somehow always finding rainbows (and snacks) at the end.
- Aries: You charge like a champion from the starting gate — bold, brilliant, and unstoppable once your mane’s in the wind.
- Taurus: You’re the chill pasture philosopher — strong, steady, and happiest when life smells like fresh hay and sunshine.
- Gemini: Fast-talking, quick-trotting, and always two steps ahead — you could charm a barn cat into helping muck stalls.
- Cancer: Big-hearted and fiercely loyal, you’re the one who makes the herd feel at home — and you always know when someone needs a nuzzle.
- Leo: You don’t just trot, you strut — your mane catches the light, your laugh turns heads, and every field feels like your spotlight.
- Virgo: Organized and graceful, you’d alphabetize the tack room and still have time to braid perfect show-ring flowers into your forelock.
- Libra: Elegant, kind, and balanced as a dressage pirouette — you make harmony look effortless and friendship feel like a Sunday trail ride.
About the Equine Museum of Science and Art
The Equine Museum of Science and Art (EMSA) is a growing nonprofit project dedicated to celebrating the horse through education, creativity, and connection. Blending art, science, and hands-on learning, EMSA explores how humans and horses understand one another—from anatomy and behavior to mythology and motion. Our goal is to deepen public appreciation for the intelligence, sensitivity, and wonder of horses while inspiring kindness, curiosity, and respect. EMSA currently offers online resources, outreach events, and traveling exhibits, with plans underway for a permanent immersive museum experience in the Pacific Northwest.
Get Involved
Follow us online for updates and events, or support our mission through volunteering, sponsorships, or donations. Visit emsahorsemuseum.org to learn more and join our growing community celebrating the art and science of the horse. Support our cause today.