Drawing Commissions in Graphite

There is something profoundly moving about seeing your horse captured as art.

Not just how they look, but who they are.

The quiet strength.

The softness.

Graphite, as a medium, is soft and calming. It is perfect for expressing connection, as well as likeness. The art that I create of your horse in graphite goes beyond likeness, it is deep and layered and meaningful.

Why Choose a Graphite Commission from me?

Every portrait is created without tack

No bridles, no headcollars, no distractions

Because I believe deeply that every horse is most able to show their true selves, when they are relaxed, free and able to express themselves. Unrestrained, unconfined.

This approach creates arwork that is timeless, elegant and very personal. To see your horse for who is really is.

Graphite drawing of two Camargue horses gently touching noses

The Commission Process

We begin with a conversation. You share all that is important to you about your horse and what they mean to you. We discuss the final image, your vision of it and what you want to feel when you see it.

I will use a reference image of your horse. We can use your own images and I will guide you which photograph is best. Of course, we will ensure that the reference aligns with your vision.

As an experienced equine photographer, I can create the reference images for you, ensuring that we have a strong basis from which to create your final artwork. This option does incur more costs, and is probably most relevant for those who live in France, and Europe. However, I do travel to the UK so if you are prepared to wait, then we can certainly organise a photoshoot for when I am there.

Then I will get on with your drawing. It is created slowly and intentionally, with close attention to all the details. Each mark is placed with care which builds depth, softness, and realism in layer after layer. This process cannot be rushed but is what gives the final piece its power and presence.

FAQs

How long does a bespoke horse portrait in graphite take?

From the time that I get the photograph, or when we have chosen the photograph that we are going to use for the portrait, it normally takes around 3 weeks for me to complete the portrait. Depending on where you are in the world, we also need to add on the shipping time, but you will know the timing of this when you order your artwork.

Can I commission a bespoke horse portrait in graphite from one of my own photographs?

Yes of course! Even though I can come to you, if circumstances permit, to photograph your horse, you might already have the perfect photograph that you want me to use. One that beautifully captures what you love about your horse.

If you have a photograph that was taken by a professional photographer, then you must get permission for us to use that photograph for our artwork.

Can I commission a fine art graphite portrait if my horse is no longer with me?

Yes, you can. I genuinely appreciate how much our horses mean to us, and when they are gone, it is heart-breaking. As long as you have at least one photograph of your lovely horse, then we can work to create a beautiful portrait of them. It is also possible for me to create an image for you if you have several photographs so that we can get the very best features of your horse.

Why only graphite and not colour?

Although colour is wonderful, and brings so much to an image, to me graphite brings a beautiful softness and honesty to the image. A black & white picture allows you to add your own interpretation and meaning to the image.