Edward Waites British, Contemporary

Edward Waites is recognised as one of Britain’s most accomplished contemporary equine and wildlife sculptors. Born in Suffolk in 1988, he is entirely self-taught, having devoted himself to sculpture from a young age with an intensity and discipline that belies his years. Despite the absence of formal academic training, his distinctive approach and assured command of form have earned him international recognition and placement in some of the world’s most distinguished collections. A deep understanding of materials underpins Waites’ practice. Working primarily in bronze, and occasionally in silver, he favours a direct and physical approach to modelling. Sculptor’s marks are deliberately left visible on the surface, enlivening the form and reinforcing the immediacy of the artist’s hand. These textured surfaces interact subtly with light, enhancing the sense of animation and presence within each piece. From the outset of his career, Waites has worked closely with a foundry in Suffolk, employing the ancient lost-wax casting process. Each sculpture begins in clay and progresses through a labour-intensive series of stages before being cast in limited editions. This traditional method demands patience, precision and collaboration, and each work typically takes several months to complete. Waites’ subject matter extends beyond the racehorse to encompass a wide range of wildlife, including the powerful animals of the African plains. His careful observation allows him to capture the individuality of each subject, whether portraying celebrated stallions such as Dubawi and Makfi or untamed creatures in their natural habitat. In every case, the emphasis is on spirit as much as structure. His sculptures are held in prominent public, corporate and private collections worldwide, including several royal collections. Notable commissions have been made for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as for the ruling family of Dubai, Lord and Lady Bamford, and other distinguished patrons.