Pantex’s star-spangled stallion sports a fresh look

Across Amarillo, Canyon, and surrounding communities, about 100 likenesses of the American Quarter Horse dot the plains. Yet, these horses are unlike their living, breathing equine counterparts.

Collectively, the horses comprise “Hoofprints of the American Quarter Horse,” an art display created through a partnership between Center City of Amarillo and the American Quarter Horse Association. For more than a decade, one such horse has stood outside Building 16-12 welcoming visitors and employees.

Astute Pantexans may have noticed “Freedom,” the name given to the Pantex horse, has been missing since late October.

“Over time, the sun faded the beautiful artistic work of the U.S. flag and wind turbines displayed on the horse,” remarked Mission Assurance Officer Colby Yeary. “Just as our aging infrastructure is being recapitalized over time, the horse needed a refresh as well.”

The weather-worn horse was in desperate need of repair. Local artist Gary Ward, a former Canyon art teacher, came highly recommended. Ward, as it turns out, is responsible for the creation and restoration of many of the Hoofprints displays.

“I taught art and computer graphics in Canyon for 25 years,” he explained. “I’ve done a lot of [the horses] — no idea how many, really. I’ve been doing them ever since they started, probably half of them or better. I’ve either done the originals or, like with yours, I’ve been the one repainting them.”

Ward sanded, primed, then repainted Freedom with both automotive and spray paints, adding printed vinyl decals for logos or intricate details — things like the Pantex logo and numerous stars. Finally, the finished product was covered with a durable automotive clear coat.

Yeary said Freedom’s journey reminds him of the cooperation, camaraderie, and national pride exhibited by Pantexans every day.

“For me, it is a symbolic representation of our community, along with the patriotism we embrace as Pantexans,” he said. “As visitors, new employees, and existing employees enter and exit 16-12, seeing this horse can create a lasting impression of our site and what Freedom symbolizes to them.”