The horse has always held great importance in my life; having been born into a family of equine enthusiasts, and brought up on a stud one can easily understand therefore, my keen interest in painting my chosen subject matter. With access to some of the world’s most famous thoroughbred stallions I thought I had seen beauty beyond belief, but all that changed after my first visit to Saudi Arabia. This is where I truly understood why the Arabian horse is considered to be one of the greatest Arab treasures.

I have for many years studied the composition of the horse and drawn inspiration from some of the world’s greatest equine artists, George Stubbs, Theodore Gericault and Alfred deDreux, amongst them, all were fascinated by the Arab horse. My increasing desire to travel to the Middle-East, was destined to become a dream come true. I was invited to Saudi Arabia three years ago to visit the wonderful al Khalediya Stud and prepare for an exhibition, gratefully accepting the generous hospitality of HRH Prince Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz al Saud.

Saudi Arabia had once been described to me as an artist’s paradise and throughout my time spent in this inspirational country I experienced overwhelming hospitality and welcoming smiles.

My adventure began in November 2006, in Riyadh, where I spent a week soaking up the rich culture, cuisine, history and religion. I visited many important, historical sites including the Masmak Fortress and the ruins of the old capital, Dir’aiyah. The bustling downtown souq was filled with thousands of delights from exquisite carpets, to beautiful jewellery and native spices that filled the air with delectable smells. It was a wonderful introduction into the unique Saudi culture.

However, for me the true treasures were yet to be discovered. An hour’s drive outside Riyadh took me to HRH Prince Khaled’s Al Khalediah stud and along the way I was able to capture my first glimpses of local bedouins, camels and experience the never ending views of the vast open space of red sand desert. The Stud is a truly unique place, 3000 acres of rich vegetation surrounded by tall trees with only sand dunes as neighbours. On arrival I was greeted by a wonderful display of HRH Prince Khaled’s top horses; I was astounded by their beauty and perfection, quickly realising the depth of material I had to work from.

I returned to Al Khalediyah for my second visit in May 2007, where the temperature was now 48 degrees. I spent 10 days sketching and photographing, beginning my days at 5am, needing to beat the heat of the sun before the horses and I began to wilt, collecting valuable material for this exhibition.

Finally, a visit to Jeddah, the Red Sea city, known locally as the “bride of the sea”, a magical ending to an inspirational journey.

Nichola Eddery