Katie O'Sullivan

That Katie O'Sullivan would 'rise to stardom' within the fields of sporting and equestrian art has never been in question. Her first ever exhibition in London in 1981 was to provide a wonderful indication of her incredible talent and future success - a prestigious New York Gallery purchased half of the show and endeavoured to sign her up on the spot.

This exhibition in 2003 gives us the opportunity to see why Katie has progressed to the very pinnacle of her profession. Whilst she is inevitably fully occupied with major commissions, it is gratifying that she has been able to dedicate time to producing this new collection of work. Comprising 38 paintings, Katie has clearly taken great pleasure in working towards her first exhibition for 3 years. Her choice of subject matter is delightfully varied and ranges from the more 'traditional' equine and sporting themes, such as jockeys' silks, striking thoroughbred studies and hounds, to a wonderful collection of animated and vibrant scenes from the circus.

That equestrian and sporting subject-matter should form the core of Katie's work is entirely natural. She grew up in the Irish countryside surrounded by animals and rode from childhood. At 20 her artistic talents were to win her a place at Chelsea School of Art where she studied for 5 years and won many awards. Remaining firmly attached to her roots and loyal to her unwavering love of horses and racing she returned to her native Ireland, where she was to paint and exhibit successfully for the next 11 years. Today, Katie is to be found yet more deeply immersed within the equestrian world; living and working in Lambourn she is able to draw constant inspiration from her base in the heart of the English racing scene.

Marked by their imaginative compositions, dramatic colours and use of unusual surfaces and materials, Katie O'Sullivan's paintings are entirely distinctive. Skilled draughtsmanship and a sound knowledge of anatomy inform each of her images. Her understanding and deep appreciation for her subject matter are clearly evident. Be it the beauty and nobility of a thoroughbred's uplifted head, the shimmering and rippling of light on a jockey's silks or the colour and drama of the circus scenes, each is full of life and vigour. Katie's own character, her great animation, wit and flair permeate her art.

Let us hope that this remarkable artist continues to thrill us with her outstanding talent well into the future.

Sir Peter O'Sullevan CBE