Emma Taylor ~ Ponyhour Equine Artist of The Month

We're delighted that Emma Taylor, artist, jewellery designer, engraver and art tutor has agreed to be interviewed for Ponyhour's Equine Artist of The Month. Thank you Emma, first question please tell us about your work? What are you currently working on?

I love to ride but don’t bounce so well if I fall off these days, so I stopped!

I’ve always been fascinated by horses, their movement, expression and character. 

Initially I use charcoal powder and work pretty fast, cutting in highlights with a rag then finish up using willow sticks for detail, which takes far longer! It is a pretty messy process.
Most recently I am loosening up my drawing by creating large cartoonish character sketches on newspaper. These have been popular, so I’m looking to develop them into cards and mugs. It is a mile away from my usual art.

How did you decide to become an artist?

 I’ve always earned my living with a pencil. I am a jeweller by trade and worked as a commercial jewellery and silver giftware designer for many years, earning a few awards along the way. 

Becoming an artist was a natural progression once I had family commitments to juggle. Pastel portraits and artwork are a move sideways from my horses and ponies.

What's the best advise you've been given as an artist?

The best advice I received and could give, is always have a sketch book with you and use it.

Inspiration pops up everywhere, every day. (A camera wouldn’t hurt either!)

What do you do when you are not creating?

When I’m not drawing, I’m usually thinking about my next piece and experimenting with colours and ideas. 

For instance, last night I was watching a film and doing an experimental racehorse sketch using the dim light.

What are your work and life goals for the future?

My goals for the future include my own website -at long last- and expanding my horse work into giftware once again.

A collaboration would be ideal.

Where can we find your work? 

You can catch up with my work and DM me for horses and portraits on:

Twitter @ArtfulEmma 

Instagram @emma_taylor_artworks 

Facebook @EmmaTaylorArtWorks

It’s always great to hear from fellow pony and art lovers.