Speed (a study in oil and acrylic)

Jenny Watson captures the power and beauty of champion race horse Black Caviar. Showing the thoroughbred in full flight, the painting suggests the raw speed only experienced by the jockey. The work is a portrait of a national icon composed in the established tradition: side on in full flight, and alone on the track. The work is based on a photograph of Black Caviar, which has been gridded and scaled up for the final composition. This substructure is still evident, the artist happy to divulge the technique employed. Each square of the grid upon closer inspection reveals itself as a small expressionistic painting, particularly evident in the lush green grass of the racetrack. Creating a tension between the distant and intimate viewing of the work, it is, as the subtitle declares, 'a study in oil and acrylic'. It is both a portrait of a champion race horse and a conceptual exercise where the artist has revisited her own painting practice and history. Watson is known for her ongoing investigation of her personal experiences and aspirations. She delves into moments of daily life capturing them with simplicity and humility. She has often included the image of the horse in her work, a reference to their importance in her life as both companions and partners in riding.