She also has a place in our home where we see her every day.
Moonshadow was one of the wild horses of Assateague Island in Maryland. Sadly, she was mortally injured by a hit-and-run motorist and was found dead on July 6, 2021. Her young foal, Moonbeam, was also hit but survived her injuries. This original painting has been framed and hangs in our home near the piano in a sunroom off of our living room. Everyone who has visited has complimented the painting. They are also saddened to hear the story behind behind her accident and subsequent death.
A well known British artist, Isabella Francesca Abigail Shores, out of compassion, fell in love with the story of Moonshadow and her untimely demise. “Abbie” asked my permission to create a painting of Moonshadow based the photo I shot the last time I saw Moonshadow “alive and free” on Assateague Island. I applied in the affirmative because I knew it would be a wonderful tribute to this beautiful Assateague Pony (as these animals are affectionately called).
We now have the original painting by Abigail Shores in our home. However, you can purchase a high quality Giclee print and/or home decor items in Abbie’s online gallery at Fine Art America.
Abbie’s painting was modeled after my original photograph of Moonshadow and Moonbeam, a beautiful mother and child, that was shot only a few days before the tragic event. This is the last photograph I have of her and her foal.
The Assateague Ponies, as they are affectionately called, are actually feral wild horses who roam Assateague Island north of the Maryland/Virginia state line. Park officials and signage continuously remind visitors to slow down and always drive with caution along the Assateague Island National Seashore’s roadways. Visitors are advised to always be on the lookout for the wild horses and other wildlife that live on the island. Any accident inside the park, especially if an animal is involved, should be reported to park rangers at the main office or Visitor Center. Unfortunately, neither that caution nor protocol was adhered to in this tragic story.
Use the links below to purchase either a print of the original painting or of the original photograph and/or to see home decor items available with either image.
Click here for: A print of of Moonshadow by Abbie Shores.
Click here for: A photograph of Moonshadow and Moonbeam by Bill Swartwout.
Note please, that there is no “Misty of Chincoteague” here. The horses of Assateague Island are separated into two herds – “Misty” was representative of the Virginia herd. “Moonbeam” was in the Maryland herd.
Great story Bill and a lovely painting of Moonshadow by Abbie – incredibly detailed and well shaded to get the shadows and curves of the horse. It is a real shame that someone didn’t care enough to slow down. I’m glad this painting is there as a real memory of the horse!
Agreed, Abbie is quite talented. The tragic event touched her and me in the same way and I’m so glad she decided to honor Moonshadow with her talent. Literally everyone who comes into our home comments on Abbie’s painting and say that it’s wonderful that we have Moonshadow’s memory here with us.
Beautiful artwork!
Thank you, Tatiana. Yes, Abbie is wonderful.
What a touching story and a beautiful painting by Abbie. The painting gives me such feelings of melancholy. I always feel such sadness when any life is lost.
Thank you, Rebecca. I was especially saddened because I saw (and photographed) her only a couple days before the tragic incident.
Sad story but lovely pics by both you and Abbey. I hope Moonbeam is doing well
Thank you, Anne. Moonbeam has been rehomed and is doing well on a private farm in Pennsylvania.
I simply adore wild horses. Spent a couple years visiting the local herds multiple times each week. Great story and artwork.
Thanks, Bob. I’m hoping to visit the wild horses on the Outer Banks next spring.