Chisholm Gallery

Smail, Caroline

British Contemporary

Gloucestershire based artist Caroline Smail takes inspiration from her love of animals and country sports. Having grown up on the back of a horse with a dog by her side Caroline has an innate understanding of her subjects which gives her paintings their depth.

Working predominantly in pen and ink and pastel Caroline utilizes a free and sketch-like style that helps to capture the speed and energy of sports such as polo and the power and agility of the horses involved. The majority of Caroline’s paintings are done on commission and her love of her subjects is clear in the unique ability she has to capture their character as well as a physical likeness. In addition, Caroline paints portraits of humans and will use pastels and oils where requested.

Recently Caroline has been inspired by the pomp and ceremony of the Household Cavalry which has been the catalyst for a series of images on this subject. Caroline’s brother and a number of friends have served in the British Army and as such she has been given a unique insight into their workings which has come across in the paintings.

Her love of the equine form combined with a keen interest in the ceremonial activities of the mounted regiments give these paintings their edge. Caroline is always on the lookout for inspiration and will happily try her hand at a wide range of subject matter.