A Winning Weekend at the Centaur

As the final visitors depart the Centaur at Cheltenham Racecourse, the team at Art & Horse Racing is reflecting on what can only be described as a "photo finish" success. The Fresh: Art Fair has long been a staple of the Cotswolds' cultural calendar, but there was something particularly electric about this year’s editiFor a gallery rooted in the historic stables of Newmarket, bringing our collection to the home of the Gold Cup felt like a natural homecoming.

The Stand: A Sanctuary of "Feel-Good" Art

Positioned within the vibrant atmosphere of the Centaur building, the Art & Horse Racing stand served as a sophisticated retreat. While the fair was bustling with energy, our curation focused on "art that makes you feel good," creating a space where the raw power of the equine world met the serene beauty of the natural landscape.

Standout Artist and The Emotional Core: Benedicte Gele

If there was one artist who stopped visitors in their tracks this weekend, it was Benedicte Gele. The French artist’s work is a masterclass in "less is more." Using a powerful combination of charcoal, chalk, and acrylic, Gele doesn't just paint a horse; she captures its internal dialogue.

Collectors were drawn to the raw, expressive nature of her "Horse Soul" series. In the high-energy environment of a racecourse fair, Gele’s minimalist approach—focusing on the tension of a neck or the curve of a flank—provided a visceral emotional connection. Her work reminded us all that the beauty of the horse lies not just in its speed, but in its profound sensitivity.

Dramatic Atmosphere: Marco Ramasso

Providing a stunning counterpoint was the work of Italian artist Marco Ramasso. While Gele captures the soul, Ramasso captures the atmosphere. His paintings brought a sense of dramatic, moody elegance to our stand, often blending rich textures with a sophisticated use of light and shadow.

Ramasso’s ability to place the horse within a dreamlike, almost cinematic landscape resonated deeply with the Cheltenham audience. His work carries an "old-world" Italian flair but feels entirely modern, making it a favorite for those looking to add a statement piece that balances power with mystery.

The Power of Contrast: Emel Vardar & Dawn Reader

One of the most praised aspects of our stand was the dialogue between the different mediums on display:

• Emel Vardar’s glass sculptures provided a masterclass in elegance. In an environment defined by speed and strength, Vardar’s soft, lyrical curves and "hidden goddesses" offered a moment of quiet introspection. Her work reminded visitors that beauty, much like a perfect race, requires a balance of strength and grace.
• Dawn Reader’s landscapes brought the "big skies" of Suffolk to the rolling hills of Gloucestershire. Fresh from her "Suffolk Skies" solo show, Dawn’s mastery of light and atmosphere resonated with those looking for a window into the tranquil English countryside.

The "Expert Eye" in Action

What truly set the Art & Horse Racing experience apart this weekend was the authentic expertise behind the counter. Founded by equine vet and trainer Ilka Gansera-Leveque, the gallery offers a perspective that few can match. Whether discussing the anatomical precision of a sculpture or the "feel" of a racing scene, the team provided an insider's view that bridged the gap between the paddock and the palette.

The Verdict

Fresh: Cheltenham 2026 was a resounding reminder that art and racing are twin passions. The fair provided the perfect platform to showcase that equine art can be contemporary, sophisticated, and deeply emotional.

We are heading back to Newmarket inspired by the conversations we had and the new homes found for our artists' works. To everyone who joined us at the Centaur—thank you for making this weekend a winner.

Missed us at the fair? The journey continues at our permanent gallery in Newmarket. We invite you to book a private viewing to experience our "feel-good" collection in the very stables where the inspiration begins.