Devon artist launches auction in Exeter to help save vulnerable horses

A Devon artist is using her latest work to support one of the region’s leading horse welfare charities, with an online auction launching this week to raise funds for The Mare and Foal Sanctuary.

Equine painter Emily Johnson, the Artist in Residence at Cheltenham Racecourse, has pledged 50 per cent of the sale of her new oil painting, Esperanza, to the charity, which cares for more than 550 rescued horses and ponies across its sites in Devon.

The sealed-bid auction opened on Thursday (28 November) on Johnson’s website, the painting was available to view locally at the Westpoint Equestrian Fair in Exeter on 29–30 November. 

It will later go on show at Cheltenham Racecourse before bidding closes on 14 December.

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Johnson, who has been praised for her ability to capture the movement and character of horses, said Esperanza was inspired by the energy of Spanish and Andalusian breeds. “I wanted to express a sense of freedom,” she said. 

“I painted it outdoors on a summer bank holiday, which I think comes through in the final piece.”

She added that she chose to donate part of the proceeds after realising the sale could directly benefit animal welfare: “Instead of sharing the profits with a gallery, why not share them with an equine charity?”

“When I visited The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s site near Totnes, I was struck by their professionalism and the care given to the horses. It felt like the right fit.”

The Sanctuary, which operates four sites in Devon and relies heavily on public donations, said Johnson’s support will help them continue caring for vulnerable equines, including abandoned foals, elderly horses, and animals recovering from neglect.

Dawn Vincent, the charity’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, said: “Emily’s generosity will have a real impact. 

Her connection with horses is clear in her work, and the funds raised will support rescue, rehabilitation and long-term care.”

Alongside rescue work, the Sanctuary runs equine-assisted wellbeing programmes for children and adults, promoting the therapeutic benefits of spending time with horses—something Johnson says she relates to. 

“Horses are my therapy,” she said. “They help you feel grounded and present.”

Similar pieces by the artist have previously sold for between £1,000 and £2,000, and the auction is expected to attract significant interest.