Contemporary Equine Artist Dean Douglas unveils Legends of the Turf At Cheltenham Festival, in Collaboration with Racing Welfare

Contemporary equine artist Dean Douglas will unveil the first work in his new collection, Legends Of The Turf, at the Cheltenham Festival 2026 in collaboration with Racing Welfare.

The inaugural piece honours Arkle, one of the most iconic steeplechasers in racing history. Created as a one-of-one original, the painting incorporates authentic Cheltenham racecourse earth embedded within the canvas, physically grounding the work in the heritage of the sport.

Legends Of The Turf is an ongoing body of work dedicated to the horses that shaped racing history. Each painting focuses on a singular figure, exploring not only physical likeness but legacy, presence and enduring impact.

Alongside each original, a strictly limited edition of three archival collector prints will be released. A percentage of proceeds from the collection will support Racing Welfare, reinforcing the project’s commitment to the people at the heart of British racing.

Douglas specialises in private racehorse commissions for owners and figures within the sport. He has previously created work for Sir Alex Ferguson and collaborated with industry names including Paul Hanagan and Ged Mason. His work has been featured live at Aintree, Haydock Park and the ROA Awards in London.

Speaking on the collaboration, Douglas said:

“Racing is built on legacy, not only of horses, but of people. It felt important that this collection should support those who dedicate their lives to the sport. Launching the first piece at Cheltenham, with Racing Welfare, brings that full circle.”

Racing Welfare CEO Dawn Goodfellow said:

“We are incredibly grateful to Dean for choosing to support Racing Welfare through the Legends of the Turf collection. The stories of great horses like Arkle are woven into the history of our sport, and it is the people working behind the scenes who help

keep that legacy alive. Partnerships like this help ensure we can continue to provide vital support to racing’s workforce, and we’re delighted to be part of this special launch at the Cheltenham Festival.”

The Arkle painting will be presented during the Cheltenham Festival, with private acquisition enquiries welcomed throughout the week.

For further information, visit: www.ddouglasart.com