January 2025’s Blog

As an artist, I enjoy the winter season. I can excuse sitting indoors at my desk painting when the wind howls or the rain pours down. When I can't get outside to take my own reference photos, I spend time searching for them online.

I’d like to concentrate on painting very high-profile racehorses, but the images online never seem to be royalty-free or protected by copyright. I attempted to get in touch with a photographer to request permission to use one of their most recent images from a January fixture at Ascot, a stunning portrait of Jonbon trained by Nicky Henderson. However, I haven't heard back as of yet. But I was also on the website of The Horse Trust, a fantastic charity that offers a rescue centre and a rest home for retired working horses. I now routinely support this organisation, and I would also donate a share of the revenue if I sold any of my artwork.

I came across the RIP section, which always tears at my heartstrings to read about the brave lives of these ex-police or military working horses who have spent most of their lives in diligent public service. There, I came upon a stunning photograph of Samson, one of the beloved, very recently deceased horses. At a magnificent 18.2hh, he was a grey Clydesdale gelding. He had worked for a long time with the Mounted Branch of the Thames Valley Police, where he patrolled the public and policed busy football games, possibly FA Cup finals, I pondered. His image of strength, warmth, friendliness, and steadfastness really stood out to me.

I contacted The Horse Trust, and they graciously allowed me to paint Samson using their photo as a reference. Because I paint with a great degree of similarity to the photo, obtaining the necessary authorisation is absolutely essential. They were kind enough to send me three photographs. I was quite delighted with the finished artwork, which you can see below. I used soft pastel on Pastelmat for the piece. It was a unique experience painting Samson's portrait; I felt a connection to his beautiful spirit during the process. I have just sent the charity a high-resolution version of the completed artwork, and of course, they are more than welcome to use it in any way possible, if they wish.

My soft pastels—used for Samson’s portrait

Samson reached the grand age of 25 and had spent the past 6 or 7 years of his life in the excellent care of The Horse Trust. The job they do to help our brave ex-service horses reach their golden years and provide them with the time, space, and attention they need to unwind and enjoy their well-earned retirement is amazing.

With great pleasure, I am now sponsoring the magnificent William for the year. He is a 16.3hh gelding who retired from the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in June 2020. I’ve received the most beautiful sponsorship pack from The Horse Trust. I only wish I lived closer to Princes Risborough, where The Horse Trust is located, so I could pay a visit; it is simply too far away for a day trip. Nonetheless, I’m delighted to be able to contribute in whatever small way to this charity's outstanding work.

“Samson The Horse Trust”