An international animal charity has teamed up with a local art personality and the Cheshire Military Museum to draw attention to the plight of horses, donkeys and mules across the world.
The Brooke hosted ‘Tails from the Field’ exhibition at the Cheshire Military Museum from the 28th September until the 5th October.
Featuring equines at work, Tails from the Field draws attention to the pivotal work in modern working life.
Adam Partridge, best known for his appearances on Flog It!, Bargain Hunt and Dickinson’s Real Deal, acted as auctioneer for the launch event on Saturday, 28th September.
Dozens of pieces were donated to the charity by artists from around the world, including equine artist Laura Jeanne.
The pieces were displayed in the museum’s exhibition space throughout the week for the public to enjoy.
“There is a clear connection between horses and the military… I think we need to remember that not every soldier who fought for us in the war were human. Even in this day, thousands of equine animals continue work at the frontline to serve us.”
Andy Manktelow, Regimental Secretary and Museum Manager for the Cheshire Military Museum
The auction was held in the hopes of raising vital funds for the cause.
Laura Jeanne, British equine artist and fine artist, told Mersey Community News: “It is a real honour to have my work shown at the Cheshire Military Museum in Chester. For people to see my work is an honour anywhere, but especially here with a military themed painting like The Cavalry.
“They’re so noble, horses. They are so willing to please, and they so want to just help us. That’s what’s so amazing about horses. A good horse – you can’t beat it!”
Andy Manktelow, Regimental Secretary and Museum Manager for the Cheshire Military Museum said:
“We are delighted to be approached by the Brook organisation to host this exhibit. Some stunning pieces have been donated, and somebody somewhere will pick up a beautiful piece of artwork.
“We wanted to host the event as there is a clear connection between horses and the military. From a historical point of view, we were using horses and donkeys to pull gun carriages, carry ballistic equipment and for messengers.
“I think we need to remember that not every soldier who fought for us in the war were human. Even in this day, thousands of equine animals continue work at the frontline to serve us.
“Anyone who manages animals or is associated with animals should be concerned with their welfare, whether they are a farmer, a rider or a horse racer.”
The aim of the event was to encourage members of the public to support Brooke’s mission in protecting animal welfare.
Caroline Robertson, Senior Regional Fundraising Officer at Brooke, said:
“The art exhibition Tails from the Field is a collection of artwork depicting working horses, donkeys and mules from around the world and showcases some brilliant artwork, every piece kindly donated by talented local, regional and international artists to raise vital funds.
We have a growing number of Supporter Groups in the North West who are passionate about animal welfare and want to make a difference to the lives of working horses and donkeys across the world.
I hope we can set up more fundraising and awareness, raising events like this in Cheshire and giving us the perfect opportunity to share the work of our fantastic charity.”
The Cheshire Military Museum is open daily to the public from 10 am – 5 pm. To find out more about how to get involved with future events held by Brooke, please visit the Brooke website here.