Horses

Calypso Grazing

Oil on board

This study of 'Con Calypso' grazing was bought as a surprise present for Calypso's owner (who puts in a lot of time making him shine like that!)

Here are her words on the painting:

'As I gaze into this beautiful painting I smile and feel very happy. Why? Two main reasons: firstly, it is like I am standing in the field on a summers day gazing with a real passion at my very precious, beautiful boy. It's so lifelike I feel like I can even smell the fresh spring glass. Secondly it's a very true reflection of Calypso, beauty with sheer equine presence and happiness at its best. Calypso has the kindest of hearts the shortest of patience and movement which turns heads! He's one in a million and everyday when I see him I feel so lucky to have such a special friend in my life.'

Con Calypso is 17.2 hh Hannoverian who was 9 years old at the time that this portrait was painted. If Calypso was a person he would certainly be one of the Brad Pitt/George Clooneys of this world; incredibly handsome, charming and memorable. However I don’t think I have ever known a horse as spooky and sharp… so don’t be fooled by this loveable rogue.

The kindest of natures and gentlest of souls, he is also, however, the biggest scaredy-cat. Calypso will walk past a combine harvester without turning a hair but he will notice the lightest of leaves rustling in the hedge and before you know it he will be heading break neck speed in the opposite direction, at times. his owner feels that he should be entered in the 5f dash at Newmarket - he would certainly make a good break -the reaction times of this fellow are astonishing!

The dressage judges always comment on his beauty and his beautiful balanced paces. In Lizzie's words, 'We just have to hope we get though the test without a famous  ‘Calypso spook’ if we do, we are likely to win the red ribbon.'

'Cal' has certainly gained his father’s jumping ability and he has produced numerous double clears. This was shown very early on his career when he gained the top marks in his classes in the Burghley Young Event Horse Classes  for his jumping technique as both a 4 and 5 year old. Everyone who has ever met Calypso has remembered him and commented on his presence and wonderful nature, he’s certainly my best friend and this painting is a perfect reflexion on his beauty, power and playful personality.'

Prints are from a limited edition of 250 and are signed by the artist.