It’s not every day that a commission leads to friendship, but that’s exactly what happened with my painting of Gus – a magnificent horse of a lifetime.
How this Meaningful Commission Came About
I first met Gus’s owner in quite an unexpected way. As a writer, Cheltenham Racecourse had asked her to produce an article about me and my role as their Official Artist-in-Residence. We spoke on the phone for about an hour, chatting easily about my life with horses, art, and my mare, Molly, who I’ve had since I was 15 (over 20 years!!). She told me about her own special bond with Gus, her horse of a lifetime, and we quickly realised how similar our stories were. She really enjoyed writing the article, and I remember thinking how lovely it was to have connected so well with someone I’d only just met.
A few weeks later, her husband got in touch with me out of the blue. He explained that she had been very taken with my story and felt a real connection between my experience and hers. With her birthday coming up, he wanted to surprise her with a gift voucher for a bespoke oil portrait of Gus. I loved the idea – not only would it be a meaningful surprise, but having a voucher would allow her to be part of the creative process from start to finish.
Meeting Gus: A Gentle Soul
When the day of my visit arrived, I drove to their yard to meet Gus in person. He was a large, strong horse, but with the kindest, most gentle nature. While his owner and I chatted, he wandered around the yard completely loose – sniffing my easel, investigating and generally keeping a watchful, interested eye on what we were doing. I took photographs, but also spent time sketching him in oils, so I could capture his personality while he was right there in front of me.
During the hour or so it took to complete the oil sketch, we talked non-stop. Gus was patient, standing quietly while still engaging with what was happening around him. It’s a time when I’m slowly absorbing their character and personality. When the sketch was finished, his owner smiled and asked, “Do you want to jump on him?” I’m a yes person so before I knew it, she had given me a leg-up, and there I was, sitting bareback on Gus – a beautiful moment, one that deepened my sense of connection with him.
The Commission Process: Painting from the Heart
Back in my studio, the final painting flowed easily. I’ve found that when I truly understand both the horse and the person who loves them, the work comes naturally. Gus’s portrait was one of the most rewarding pieces I’ve ever created.
To make the delivery extra special, we decided to meet halfway at a lovely village pub. When she saw the piece for the first time, I could see how much it meant her – nearly bringing a tears to her eyes.
A lasting Memory a Timeless Gift
This is exactly why I love creating bespoke horse portraits for my clients. They’re not just paintings; they’re deeply personal tributes to once-in-a-lifetime bonds. This portrait wasn’t just art; it was a lifelong keepsake of her horse, a way to enjoy his memory forever. Gus’s story, and the memories I made creating this piece, are ones I will always treasure.
Commissioning your own Equestrian Oil Painting
Commissioning a bespoke horse portrait is about more than just the finished painting. It’s about the journey — the stories shared, the bonds made, and the memories captured in oil and canvas. For me, it’s always an honour to be part of that journey and to create a piece that my clients treasure forever.
If you’re thinking about commissioning a custom horse painting, whether as a gift or for yourself, I’d love to hear your story and help bring it to life.
Send me a message via my contact form today, I’m looking forward to hearing about your horse of a lifetime..