The Alchemy of Lightness

Dominique Barbier cultivated his riding skills at a number of highly regarded facilities throughout Europe, following various disciplines, including show jumping, eventing, dressage, and steeplechasing. Dominique then based himself in Portugal for two years studying with the legendary Mestre Nuno Oliveira. This experience was a defining moment that inspired Dominique's belief in keeping a horse "light and happy." Since immigrating to the United States, Dominique's teaching and passion for the "Art of Dressage" has reached many thousands of people throughout the country, as well as North Africa, Europe, Asia, and Brazil. His avantgarde philosophy, focusing on the importance of mental communication and the understanding of the horse's nature, has been practiced now for over 40 years. Dominique is also the author of Dressage for the New Age, Meditation for Two and Riding with Oliveira with Keron Psillas, which are also available from Trafalgar Square Books (dominiquebarbier.com).

Dr. Maria Katsamanis has received worldwide recognition as a horse trainer, clinician, exhibition rider, and author. She holds a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. Maria’s early equestrian career included working as an exercise rider for a French racing barn and had the privilege of participating as a display rider in Queen Elizabeth’s II Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Castle. She founded a nonprofit foundation called Friends for Pegasus. She and her Marwari stallion, Bahadurshah, champion equine wellness and ethical training methods around the world. She resides in the United States where she maintains a training barn in Hopewell, New Jersey (mariakatsamanis.com).