A painting by Dubai-based artist Sylvain Tremblay, entitled, 'Blue Horse', has been purchased by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, at a charity auction in London, it was announced yesterday by Canadian University Dubai, where Tremblay is a guest lecturer.

The proceeds of the auction are earmarked for charities supporting sustainable water projects internationally.

Tremblay, who is best known for his world record-breaking portrait of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, crafted from desert sands, donated his Blue Horse painting to the Formula E charity event held at the Natural History Museum in London recently.

The piece was among a number of other works that contributed to the US$1 million plus funds being raised in support of ONE DROP and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, to fund a new safe water access project in Guatemala.

The striking Blue Horse image is among a collection of equine exhibits crafted by the Canadian artist, initially inspired by the UAE's annual horseracing event, the Dubai World Cup. Several other pieces from the collection were exhibited to an audience of VIP guests at this year's race, to pay tribute to the event's 20th anniversary celebrations held at Meydan Racecourse.

Tremblay, who is a visiting lecturer at Canadian University Dubai, was in attendance at the exclusive Formula E Gala Dinner in London to witness the celebrities, dignities and distinguished guests take part in the charity auction of money-can't-buy pieces.

The funds raised will help around 37,000 people to access safe, sustainable water supplies for both drinking and economic development initiatives in the Central American country.
Source: WAM