Uthopia, a KWPN stallion now 15 years old, was famously ridden by Carl Hester at London 2012 Olympics along with stablemate Valegro ridden by Charlotte Dujardin – they won team gold, the first ever gold for Britain in dressage on the 100th anniversary of the equestrian sport in the Olympics. Among numerous honours the pair won team gold and two individual silvers at the 2011 European Championships.
One of Matthew’s main inspirations is the English painter, George Stubbs, to whom he has often been referred to.
‘Painters such as Stubbs have the advantage of being able to interpret what they see and often paint in a beautiful light to highlight the horse’s powerful muscles and topline’ said Matthew,
‘By using flash and sculpting the light around the horse I am able to emulate this style of painting, typical of the Old Masters, such as Stubbs, and in doing so I have captured the essence of Uthopia’,
Most important of all, he is able to demonstrate a deep affinity with horses, putting them at such ease as to allow their rich and individual personalities to emerge in portraits.
What is the most important factor in The Horse Photographers work?
‘To ensure that I take time to connect with every horse I photograph and to truly present them in their best light.’
For information about The Horse Photographer’s Limited Editions or for details about private commissions contact anne-marie@horse-photographer. co.uk. Worldwide shipping available.
