Artist Profiles

Jackie Henderson

Artist Jackie Henderson has generously donated 13 pieces of art, with 100 % of the proceeds going to support the work of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary. 

 Born and raised in Belfast, Jackie was never far away from a pony! Constantly investigating how to draw things was also a fascination, so with a brand new sketching pad arriving every week she began entertaining her school friends with multiple pony pictures. Understanding the anatomy of a pony or horse came about through lots of grooming, stable management and cuddles. 

 Jackie went to Art College to study Fashion and Textiles followed by an Art teacher’s degree. Then after all the fashion designing, the fashion journalism, the teaching in schools and in adult education she came across the Society of Equestrian Artists, becoming a Full member after a few years. It was wonderful to be amongst horse and pony enthusiasts who painted and sculpted her favourite subject.  

 These days her focus is often driven by Plein Air studies painted outdoors where the feeling of presence and well-being are food for the soul. 

Kathy Nettles

Artist Kathy Nettles has generously donated three pieces of art, with 100 % of the proceeds going to support the work of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary. 

Kathy has been a wonderful long-term supporter of the Sanctuary and last year exhibited an extraordinary collection of 30 horse and pony paintings to help mark the charity’s 30th anniversary celebrations.  

Kathy says: ‘I’ve always loved horses and after moving to Devon with my husband, John, we finally had the space. We started with a donkey and two ponies and then we had the chance to give a home to two ponies from The Mare and Foal Sanctuary – Pan and Avalon. John became the sanctuary’s patron and we’ve both remained committed to supporting them ever since.’ 

‘Although creativity has always been part of my life, I only came to painting five years ago and I just fell in love with the process. Horses feature in a lot of my work. They are such giving, generous animals.  

 ‘The work carried out by The Mare and Foal Sanctuary providing lifelong care to rescued horses and ponies is incredible. I’m so pleased to be able to support them.’ 

 Find out more about Kathy’s artwork here.