Paulina I & II, oil on canvas, 42x38cm

Paulina I & II, oil on canvas, 42x38cm

These two horse portraits were inspired by my time sketching racehorses at Newmarket. However, witnessing the reality behind the scenes changed my perspective: horses are bred purely for entertainment, and those who don't meet strict requirements are often abandoned or, worse, sold cheaply and condemned to unhappy lives.

 Throughout human history, horses have embodied untamed beauty and boundless spirit—symbols of freedom that inspire awe and respect. Yet, despite their natural wildness, these magnificent animals have been used for entertainment, farming, sport, and personal pleasure. While some may admire the bond between humans and horses, it’s time to question the ethics of domesticating and exploiting creatures that are born to run free.

Horses are, by nature, herd animals that thrive in open spaces. In the wild, they form complex social bonds, graze at their own pace, and roam vast territories. Stabling horses—keeping them confined in small, artificial enclosures—restricts their movement and natural behaviours. This confinement can lead to boredom, stress, and a range of physical and psychological health issues.

Riding and racing horses are often seen as traditions or sports, but they come at a high cost to the animals. The structure of a horse’s back is not naturally designed to carry the weight of a human, especially for prolonged periods or at high speeds. Repeated riding and racing can cause back pain, muscle strain, and even long-term spinal injuries. The use of saddles and racing equipment can further exacerbate these problems, leading to chronic discomfort and suffering.

Horses have been exploited for work, entertainment, and sport for hundreds of years. From pulling ploughs to performing in circuses and races, their welfare has often been secondary to human desires. Many vegans and animal welfare advocates argue that this exploitation is inherently cruel, as it prioritises human interests over the well-being of the horse. Issues such as overbreeding, neglect, forced labor, and the use of harsh training methods only add to the ethical concerns surrounding horse ownership and use.

It’s time to reconsider our relationship with horses and respect their right to live naturally and freely. Rather than confining them to stables or using them for our own purposes, we should support sanctuaries and efforts that allow horses to live as they were meant to—wild and unburdened by human demands. By prioritising their welfare and acknowledging the harm caused by traditional practices, we can move toward a more compassionate and ethical future for these extraordinary animals.

In the end, true respect for horses means letting them be wild, honouring their freedom, and ending the cycle of exploitation.