International Equestrian Film Series: Home on the Steppe
Free Program, Saturday, April 18, 2026, 1-3 p.m.
Man’s robe (detail), Kazakh, Uzbekistan (made). The Textile Museum Collection 2023.16.4. Dr. Harry and Diane Greenberg.
Inspired by the exhibition Adorning the Horse: Equestrian Textiles for Power and Prestige, a special series this spring brings global equestrian cultures to life with an international selection of films. Join us for a screening of the short film Home on the Steppe: Cowboys in Kazakhstan, followed by a panel discussion.
Produced by American news outlet The Daily Yonder, Home on the Steppe shares the experience of the U.S. team competing in the World Nomad Games in Kazakhstan, playing the dangerous horseback games “kokpar” and “kok boru,” which can be described as “rugby on horseback.” Players describe their journey finding brotherhood and camaraderie through the sport, and their deep respect for the cultural traditions of Central Asia.
United States, 2024, 17 minutes, in English with English subtitles.
About the Exhibition
For millennia, horses have captivated humans with their beauty, strength and majesty. From Türkiye to Japan, civilizations have elaborately costumed these prized animals. In Adorning the Horse: Equestrian Textiles for Power and Prestige, a magnificent selection of saddle blankets, horse covers and other equestrian textiles from the past 1,300 years communicates the significance and status of horses and their riders. Learn more about the exhibition
How to Participate
This program is free and will take place in person at the museum. Space is limited, so please register in advance to reserve your spot.
Additional Information
Photos and/or videos of attendees of this program may be taken and shared on social media, websites or marketing materials. Please contact MuseumEd
gwu [dot] edu (MuseumEd[at]gwu[dot]edu) if you have questions about photography or recordings at this program.