Edward Waites
Description
Edward Waites’ Peppermill Maquette reflects the British sculptor’s longstanding connection with the equestrian world and his fascination with the anatomy, movement and individuality of horses. Born in Suffolk in 1988 and based near Newmarket, the historic heart of British horse racing, Waites has been surrounded by equestrian culture throughout his life, an influence that has shaped much of his artistic career. The horse has occupied a distinguished position in British sculpture for centuries, from classical equestrian monuments to the expressive animal studies of the nineteenth century. Waites continues this tradition through a distinctly contemporary approach, capturing the natural grace and character of his subjects. Peppermill Maquette is a smaller-scale expression of this practice, with the horse's lowered head and measured stride suggesting a moment of quiet movement. Entirely self-taught, Waites works directly in clay before casting his sculptures in bronze using the traditional lost-wax process. His expressive modelling preserves the immediacy of the artist's hand, bringing vitality and individuality to his equestrian subjects. His work is represented in distinguished collections internationally, including several royal collections.