Bertie

Last time I mentioned a new project with a larger animal than a Springer Spaniel and anyone who kindly follows what I get up to on social media will know it involves a horse called Bertie.

I was curious to find out what it would be like to try and sketch horses from life, would it be as challenging as sketching a dog?

I found by googling for horses in and around Bristol, The Avon Centre. When I went I was really surprised at what a beautiful place it is and how many horses live there, as well as Shetland ponies.

About The Avon Centre:

It’s an equine and nature based activities charity mainly working with children and adults that have disabilities, one of their main objectives is to help disadvantaged people as well. The centre had to close when the pandemic hit and is now struggling to get back to where it was and to go beyond. The more I’ve got to know the volunteers the more I have heard incredible stories of the benefits that horses can have on the lives of children and adults, giving a lot of them a sense of calm and purpose.

Sketching

I’ve been allowed to move around the stables so I can get close to the horses, they have such beautiful muscle shapes and forms, which can be seen well, as they don’t poses loads of fur. Unlike Jasper the horses have moments when they can be dozing yet still standing but it’s never long enough to complete a whole portrait, so again working from observation and memory is key. Challenging yes, definitely work in progress but thanks to Jasper my Springer Spaniel, I’ve had some practice!

Bertie’s Portrait

Bertie is one of the horses that is well known and loved in the centre so I decided to paint his portrait, using my sketches, observations and photo for reference. The painting has already been sold with all the proceeds going to The Avon Centre but because it got a good reception from the people who know Bertie and I would like to help them raise more money, I thought I would make limited edition prints.

Possibly a present for someone who loves horses with some of the proceeds going to The Avon Centre? Click on Bertie and find out more.