Each sculpture stands at around 7hh (71cm) high and is made from fibreglass, created from a stunning clay maquette which was sculpted by Judy Boyt. In addition to sculpting The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials trophy, Judy Boyt has exhibited all over the world and her work is held in many private collections from the Royal Family to the Duke of Roxburghe and actress, Jane Seymour. In order to create the maquette, Judy chose World Horse Welfare Adoption horse, May, as her muse and live-sculpted her at the charity’s Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Somerset.
As part of World Horse Welfare’s Charity of the Year status at Badminton Horse Trials, the completed sculptures were then positioned around the event with adults and children alike captivated by the quest to find all fourteen and complete the trail.
World Horse Welfare Director of Fundraising, Emma Williams, said:
“From the germ of an idea almost a year ago, the Invisible Horse Trail became a fantastic reality and we will be thrilled to see the horses ‘rehomed’ to be loved and enjoyed by successful bidders in the auction. We are delighted with both the stunning designs and support of all the artists involved, each one has created a unique and special piece which tells the story of World Horse Welfare’s work through a different creative approach.
“The response to the horses so far has been overwhelming, with thousands of people enjoying the sculpture trail at Badminton Horse Trials and also at our Glenda Spooner Farm and Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centres where the horses have spent the summer months. This is a great opportunity to own a one-off piece of equestrian art whilst supporting World Horse Welfare’s vital work to help horses across the globe and we look forward to seeing the bidding get underway.”
All the artists and designers involved in the Invisible Horse Trail donated their time and creativity free of charge. Money raised from the auction of the horse sculptures will help to support World Horse Welfare in improving the lives of horses in the UK and around the world.
The online auction closes on 3rd November and these bids will be fed into a live auction (invite only) on 4th November at the BT Tower with auctioneer and racing presenter, Mike Cattermole. You can also submit a maximum bid to bid on your behalf. Top bidders will be notified on 7th November and delivery will be arranged at the bidder’s expense.
Visit the online auction site: www.invisiblehorseauction.com
Find out more about the Invisible Horse Trail at: www.worldhorsewelfare.org/the-invisible-horse-trail
