The Osborne Studio Gallery is pleased to present at least seventy newly discovered works by prolific artist-illustrator of best selling pony books, mother of a great equestrian family, founder of the famous Catherston Stud. This will be the second exhibition at the gallery following their hit show last year, in celebration of the Anne Bullen centenary.

Anne Bullen’s eldest daughter, Jennie Loriston-Clarke (nee Bullen), one of the greatest British dressage riders of her time, came upon her mother’s drawings in the drawer of a forgotten cupboard. The family decided to bring the charm and accurate observation of her paintings and drawings to a wider audience, choosing London’s leading equestrian gallery, The Osborne Studio Gallery in Belgravia.

The Osborne Studio Gallery often selects artists who capture speed and drama in the racing world. By contrast Anne Bullen’s art depicts the joy of young riders, and horses in a gentle English countryside.

A delight for those who still remember their ‘pony books’, a treat for a new generation, and a fitting tribute to Anne herself, who understood and loved all things equine, constantly sketching the life around her, including her gifted children on their ponies. She studied at the Academie Julien in Paris, and at the Chelsea Art School.

Her daughter Jane writes: ‘she was comfortable using pencil, pen and ink, crayon, charcoal, gouache or a combination at times, as well as watercolour and oils, but probably most at home with her sketchbook and pencil.’

The six Bullen children (Anthony, Michael and Charlie followed by Jennie, Jane and Sarah) were all brilliant high achieving riders. Three Bullens represented Great Britain in seven Olympic games. Jane Holderness- Roddam (nee Bullen) was a member of the Gold Medal winning team in Mexico. Jennie won the Queen’s Award for Equestrianism in 2006, Jane received the same award in 2009.

2012, the year of Anne Bullen’s centenary, brought new glory for Team GB in the London Olympics: three Gold Medals, for dressage, individual dressage and show jumping, another surge of pride for this horse loving country, and continuing popularity for equestrian art.

Jane Holderness-Roddam has written a comprehensive essay for the British Sporting Art Trust about her mother’s life and work, available on request.

The Osborne Studio Gallery
2 Motcomb Street
London SW1X 8JU United Kingdom
Ph. +44 (0)20 72359667
gallery@osg.uk.com
www.osg.uk.com

Opening hours
Monday - Friday from 10am to 6pm
Saturday from 11am to 5pm
Sunday by appointment only