Lake District artist turns horse paintings into products

Victoria Knipe, who works under the name V.K Oils, has collaborated with The Lake District Calvert Trust to create a collection of acrylic paintings inspired by the horses at Calvert Stables in Keswick.

The artworks are said to capture the unique personalities of the horses and have been transformed into greeting cards, miniature prints, limited edition prints, and cosy hoodies.

Victoria Knipe said: “I’ve always admired the incredible work The Lake District Calvert Trust does and I wanted to give something back.

The artworks are said to capture the unique personalities of the horses (Image: V.K. Oils)

“The bond between these horses and the people they help is truly inspiring — it’s been a joy to bring that to life as a painting.

“This collaboration is a chance for people to take home a piece of meaningful art while supporting a cause that touches so many lives.”

A percentage of every sale will go straight back to The Lake District Calvert Trust, helping to care for the horses and support the staff who make have a daily impact on so many.

The funds raised will also support a variety of programmes at the Trust, including pony clubs, “Tea and Trot” sessions, Pony Mindfulness sessions, and carriage driving weekends.

Lou Hogan, Manager for the Lake District Calvert Trust Stables, said: “We were blown away when Victoria approached us with her idea for Hearts and Hooves.

“We’re extremely lucky that the work of the Lake District Calvert Trust inspires so many people to give their time, expertise and hard-earned pennies to support out work.

“Victoria is no exception – we’re very much hoping that this unique collaboration will be a hit with our supporters both near and far, she’s caught the ponies’ personalities beautifully in her art and there are some lovely stocking fillers in there.”

The art works have been transformed into greeting cards, miniature prints, limited edition prints, and cosy hoodies (Image: V.K. Oils)

The collection is available both online and in person at Calvert Lakes, Calvert Stables, Lowes Court Gallery, and Gather Ennerdale.

It can also be purchased online at v.k.oils.com and Victoria’s Etsy shop – FeelingartywithVK.etsy.com.

Calvert Stables is a British Horse Society and Riding for the Disabled Association approved riding establishment, the Calvert Stables team provide accessible riding and trap driving for residential and community riders.

The charity’s team find that horses (and instructors) provide a little bit of magic for both guests and participants.

To learn more about the work of Calvert Stables, sponsor a pony online or volunteer your time, visit www.calvertstables.org.uk.