1. As a coming of age gift for a horse lover.
For a committed horse lover nothing is more important than their horse, so it can be hard to find a meaningful gift for that really special birthday. Once the horse has all the tack and equipment it needs, what more is there? A painting of that adored horse could be one thing that your coming of age child would really appreciate and value for the rest of her (or his) life. You can keep the commission secret as a huge surprise, or involve her in the process of choosing the equine artist and selecting the pose, perhaps the best approach for those with strong opinions on the subject!
2. As a wedding gift for horse lovers.
If both halves of an engaged couple love horses, a horse portrait could really wow them, as they start their lives together. Do they both own horses? Have the two horses painted together as a symbol of their owners' union. If you want to keep this gift as a surprise you will have to do some careful groundwork. Gather as many photos as you can of the horses in a variety of poses. Many equine artists prefer to see their subjects face to face, so you may need to arrange a secret rendez-vous.
3. To honour a great show or race horse once it retires.
It is a time-honoured tradition to have a portrait painted of a champion race-horse or show-jumper when it retires, sometimes even before it retires to celebrate a big win. Make sure you have a sheaf of reference photos of the horse in action, so that your equine artist can really get a good sense of the horse it its prime.
4. To commemorate a wonderful horse after it has passed on.
Losing a beloved horse is very painful. Having a portrait painted of him or her will keep memories alive and can help with the grieving process. A good equine artist can really capture the horses character as well as looks, so make sure you describe him fully as well as supplying as many photos as possible for the artist to work from.
5. Because your partner/parents won't allow your horse in the house.
And finally a less serious but equally important reason: what young horse lover can bear to be separated from their beloved pony for a moment. When your parents (or partner for older horse-lovers!) won't let your horse inside the house, make sure they commission you a gorgeous painting of him or her, so that at least you can have that to gaze at when you can't be out in the paddock all day and night!
Kit Heathcock, freelance writer, is writing for Rachel Dubber, a well-known equine artist and photographer, with a lifelong passion for horses. She creates a wide range of stunning horse art, photography and sculpture. Currently based in Cape Town, South Africa she portrays the individuality of each equestrian subject, both for portrait commissions and for her own art.
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