CAWTHORNE, Neil

1936 - 2022

Neil Anthony Cawthorne was born at 72 Hampden Road, Leicester in 1936, son of Herbert Halford Cawthorne (30 March 1906-13 December 1972), a builder's manager, and his wife Edna Lilian née Cheney (8 May 1909-1954), who married at Blaby, Leicester in 1933. Neil married at Leicester in 1957, Eileen G. née Brown. An equestrian painter who did not begin painting seriously until he was in his late 'twenties and was hunting with the Quorn and Fernie, which constituted much of his early work. In 1971 he was commissioned by 'Sporting Life' for a painting of racehorses 'Mill Reef' and 'Brigadier Gerard' and over the years painted many Classic, Grand National, and other big race winners. In 1979, he co-founded the Society of Equestrian Artists. He found his inspiration from the Racecourse, Training Grounds and Hunting Field and his work conveys their movement, atmosphere, and excitement and, as well as riding out regularly, he spent a great deal of time at stables which helped him observe, absorb, and 'feel' both the horses and the way of life. Over the years he had several exhibitions and painted an increasing number of racing subjects. His paintings are held in several Private Collections, including those of HRH King Charles III; Duke of Beaufort; Lord Harrington; Lord Vestey; Paul Mellon, Esq.; Bertram Firestone; Major Ivan Straker and Ivan Allen, Esq. He lived at Newmarket Road, Newmarket, Suffolk with his wife but moved to Oakham, Leicestershire. Neil Anthony Cawthorne died on 18 March 2022.

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Works by This Artist