‘Modern-Day George Stubbs’ Lends Support To Leading Horse Charity With Debut Exhibition At National Stud

Minnie and Jubilee Matthew Seed The rehabilitation of rescue horses was thrown into a new light yesterday in a stunning new art exhibition by a photographer likened as the ‘Modern Day George Stubbs’. The debut exhibition, which was staged at the National Stud in Newmarket on July 4th, featured horses undergoing rehabilitation by World Horse Welfare, the leading international horse charity. The images were shot by Matthew Seed, a British photographer whose growing international reputation has seen him compared to the most famous horse artist, George Stubbs. Matthew told an audience of World Horse Welfare supporters that the artistic appeal of the horse underlined a less obvious reason why the UK’s largest horse rehoming charity’s work was so important. “The horse really has earned its place in the affections and collections of individuals and art institutions around the world for centuries. “Even while looking at works by Stubbs and others, we must remember that these are not merely decorative but dynamic animals which have played a vital role in improving our lives and our civilisations. “I was delighted to support the charity having seen first-hand the wonderful transformation of previously emaciated and almost lifeless horses. To be able to capture the beauty and tenderness shared between a mare and foal at the charity’s Penny Farm was a real privilege. Without the work of World Horse Welfare it is doubtful that either animal would be alive and flourishing as they are today.” Matthew, a commercial photographer who specialises in striking artistic portraits of horses, has won critical acclaim for his work and commissions from royal and celebrity horse-lovers around the world. His exhibition at the National Stud included photographs of horses being rehabilitated at World Horse Welfare’s facilities at Penny Farm in Lancashire - one of four Rescue and Rehoming centres operated by the charity in the UK. Founded in 1927, the charity is committed to stamping out suffering and improving the life of horses in the UK and overseas through education, campaigns and hands-on work with horses. World Horse Welfare’s Director of Fundraising, John Blake, thanked Matthew for having profiled the organisation’s work in pictures and the National Stud for having agreed to host the exhibition. He also paid tribute to the charity’s volunteers and supporters. “The charity works hard to create new experiences for our supporters within our Chairman’s Circle and we were delighted to be able to provide a behind-the-scenes insight to current and potential members into the work of the National Stud, and to then introduce them to Matthew Seed’s astonishing and unique creations. We enjoyed a very memorable and poignant day, which showcased the beauty of horses but also reminded us of their fragility and reliance upon us to safeguard welfare at all stages of their lives.”

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