Elizabeth Waggett uses her skilled, fine art techniques to draw her subjects in stripped-back monochrome, adding streaks of shimmering, gold leaf to create a contrast between opulence and simplicity. Her work represents the inner struggle to balance materialism and meaning, turning each piece into a social commentary that challenges the viewer to confront the impact of humanity on the natural world.
Reflections of a Champion is a stunning work embellished with hand-applied 22 carat gold, ink and graphite, over archival pigment inks on cotton paper. Each print is unique within a limited edition of 30.
Waggett works passionately to create something special for each buyer with gold leaf detail lovingly applied by hand, making each piece truly unique. Following the soaring popularity of her work across the world, she has now reached full capacity and has announced this edition as her last hand-finished work for some time whilst she works on her new series and builds her creative practise.
A moving piece reflecting on the role of animals within society and how we treat these creatures, Waggett was inspired to honour the horse and how they serve us;
“Few animals have played such a decisive role in the development of our planet as the horse. They ensured strong harvests, protected borders and carried our predecessors to the far reaches of the globe, made and lost riches, as well as world wars. Reflections of a champion is a tribute to the many, who have served humanity, not just on the tracks.”
"Visiting the highlands of Scotland, I walked into an old outbuilding and this beautiful horse skull was hanging in it's bridle. It was such a powerful moment that left me feeling completely in awe of these animals. We don’t often think of the way in which an animal has served us, but in that moment I was taken aback by the many ways in which horses have played a role in building the world around us. It instantly struck me as a beautiful way to honour the horse's life."
Horses are used to serve, whether a race horse, riding companion or workhorse. From horses that make millions and are kept in the most lush of environments, to the horses that stand the brutal winters of central park to cart tourists around (please don’t do that). It made me think of the worth we as humans place upon them. So this is a dedication and honor to those that have served us, for thousands of years.”
10% of profits from each print will be donated to the HEROS Charity (Homing Ex-Racehorses Organisation Scheme) who have successfully rehomed several hundred ex-racehorses. There are many opportunities for ex-racehorses such as eventing, dressage, polo, show-jumping, hacks, companions and more. HEROS gives these horses a second chance of a new career and carefully matches horses to their new owners across all the equestrian disciplines.
Re-home a champion and own what could be the last of Elizabeth Waggett’s hand-finished series with this stunning and poignant piece available both online and in Enter Gallery, Brighton.
Listen to Elizabeth Waggett discuss her art and working with Enter Gallery at our podcast, Art Related Noise