The Dutch Equine Art Fair - A Whirlwind Week in Amsterdam
Earlier this summer I took a leap. I submitted six pieces from my Majestic Equus collection for consideration at the Dutch Equine Art Fair in Amsterdam, not quite knowing what would happen next.
There were so many talented artists applying, so once my artist CV, bio, and collection statement were sent off, it was time to wait and try not to refresh my inbox every five minutes.
Then in August, the wonderful news arrived. I had been selected to exhibit, and four of my pieces would be shown at the Living Horse Museum right in the heart of Amsterdam.
About the Collection
For those new to my work, I’m Emily Hancock, a mixed-media artist and equine photographer based in the New Forest, England.
Over the past decade my creative journey has evolved from traditional equine photography into a much more layered, tactile form of art. Inspired by ancient cave paintings and the raw beauty of the natural world, I now combine photography with handmade elements such as wax, flowers, and seeds from my garden to build textures that invite both sight and touch.
My collection Majestic Equus explores the elegance, power, and spirit of the horse, while celebrating its deep connection to nature. The flowers and seeds symbolise growth and transformation, while the wax embodies preservation and resilience, qualities I deeply associate with theseincredible animals.
Each piece is an invitation to look closer, to feel, and to connect, not just with the horse itself, but with the timeless bond between horse and human.
Link to Full Collection here
The Living Horse Museum – The Perfect Venue
The fair was held inside the Living Horse Museum, known in Dutch as the Hollandsche Manege. It is the oldest riding school in the Netherlands, built in 1882, and it’s still a working stable today.
The building’s grand arena and historic wooden galleries have seen over a century of equestrian history. There is even a horse-drawn carriage collection and a beautiful café that overlooks the indoor ring, making it the perfect setting for an equine art exhibition.
To have my work displayed in such a remarkable place, where art, architecture, and the living presence of horses come together, felt completely right.
The Journey to Amsterdam
Once I got the news, it was time to plan the trip, and I knew immediately who I wanted by my side, my wonderful co-pilot Hannah.
We decided to take the overnight ferry followed by a drive straight into the centre of Amsterdam. With artwork safely packed, hotel booked, and plenty of snacks for the road, we set off on Monday night.
By Tuesday morning we were delivering the artwork to the venue, still slightly bleary-eyed but so excited.
With a few hours to spare before the opening event on Wednesday evening, we managed to explore Amsterdam, soaking up its autumn charm, golden leaves along the canals, warm cafés, and that unmistakable soft northern light that makes the whole city feel like a painting.
The Fair Experience
From the moment the doors opened, it was a whirlwind. Talking to people who were genuinely interested in my art, meeting fellow artists, chatting with gallery owners and collectors, it was everything I had hoped for and more.
Over thirty artists were selected for the show, each with such unique interpretations of the horse, and I felt genuinely inspired by the range of creativity around me.
There’s something so powerful about connecting with people face-to-face, watching them pause in front of a piece, step closer, tilt their head, and then share what they feel. Those moments reminded me that my work deserves to be seen in person.
No photo online can ever quite capture the depth of the textures or the way the light plays across the wax and natural materials. Seeing and hearing people’s reactions gave me a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to keep creating.
Reflections and Gratitude
By Sunday evening, after five days of excitement, laughter, and constant conversation, my body was ready to collapse into a big comfy bed. Instead, I climbed into the passenger seat while Hannah expertly navigated trams, bicycles, and city traffic on our way back to the overnight ferry.
As we crossed the channel back home, I reflected on what an incredible experience it had been. I felt grateful not only for the chance to show my work in such a prestigious and meaningful setting, but also for the people who made the week so special.
Huge thanks go to Joyce, who organised the entire event with such care and professionalism, and to all the fellow artists who helped each other through the moments of doubt and exhaustion. That spirit of community and support is what makes events like this unforgettable.
What I Learned
This trip reminded me of something important: art belongs in the real world.
It’s one thing to share work online, and that’s valuable too, but nothing compares to seeing people experience it in person. The impact is so much stronger, the connection so much deeper.
As I unpacked my pieces back in the studio, I felt creatively recharged and full of new ideas for what’s next.
Until Next Time, Amsterdam
Amsterdam in autumn has completely stolen my heart, the colours, the light, the rhythm of the city, and the way it seems to breathe creativity.
I’m already looking forward to the next time I can return, whether that’s to exhibit again, or simply to wander the canals with a sketchbook in hand.
To everyone I met at the Dutch Equine Art Fair, thank you for making it such a memorable week. You’ve all inspired me more than you know.
