Lucy Elizabeth Kemp-Welch: A Life Dedicated to Equine Art

Early Life and Education

• Born: 1869 in Bournemouth, England.
• Lucy Kemp-Welch demonstrated artistic talent from a young age, exhibiting her work at just 14 years old.
• She received formal training at a local art school before moving to Bushey in 1891 with her sister Edith.
• At Bushey, they studied under the renowned artist Hubert von Herkomer, becoming two of his most favored students.
• Kemp-Welch quickly established herself within Herkomer’s school, setting up her own studio in an old inn known as ‘Kingsley.’

Artistic Development and Style

• Kemp-Welch specialized in painting horses, particularly those engaged in work or military service. Her style is characterized by realism, capturing the anatomy and movement of horses with remarkable accuracy.
• Her early works often depicted rural scenes featuring horses – gypsies, timber hauling, and life in the New Forest were frequent subjects.
• She developed a distinctive technique for portraying light and atmosphere, adding depth and emotion to her paintings.
• Influenced by Herkomer’s emphasis on naturalism and direct observation, Kemp-Welch focused on depicting scenes from life rather than relying on studio poses.

Major Achievements and Recognition

• Royal Academy Exhibitions: Throughout her career, Kemp-Welch had an impressive 61 paintings displayed at the Royal Academy.
• Colt-hunting in the New Forest (1897) was purchased by the Chantrey Bequest and is now part of the British National Collection at the Tate – a significant early success.
• In 1914, she became President of the Society of Animal Painters, demonstrating her standing within the artistic community.
• She illustrated the 1915 edition of Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty, bringing a new visual dimension to the beloved novel.

World War I and Beyond

• Kemp-Welch's work took on new significance during World War I. She was commissioned by the British Parliamentary Recruiting Committee to create “Forward! Forward to Victory Enlist Now”, a powerful recruitment poster.
• She also painted scenes at army remount depots, documenting the vital role of horses in the war effort – including “The Straw-ride - Russley Park,” donated to the Imperial War Museum.
• Her paintings from this period offer a poignant glimpse into the realities of wartime and the sacrifices made by both humans and animals.
• After 1926, she focused on depicting scenes of gypsy and circus life, continuing her exploration of equine subjects in different contexts.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Lucy Kemp-Welch was one of the most successful female artists of her time, achieving recognition in a male-dominated art world.
• Her paintings provide valuable insights into rural life, working animals, and the impact of war on society.
• She played an important role in promoting animal welfare through her artwork and illustrations.
• Though somewhat overlooked after World War II, her work is now being rediscovered and appreciated for its artistic merit and historical significance. She remains a notable figure in British art history.