Drawing: Horses

Horse & Rider in Action

When you depict a horse with a rider, the two should should be drawn as if they are one entity. Develop them both at the same time as you draw. The rider’s body, leg, and hand position are important elements that, when drawn correctly, will make your drawings realistic.

In step A, begin with a horizontal oval shape for the horse’s body, and block in the rider and the horse’s head, neck, and legs. Mark the angle of the horse’s shoulder line to help you establish the correct angle of the right foreleg. Notice how the horse’s hind foot turns backward as it is lifted off the ground.

Practice drawing the horse’s various gaits, as in this series of sketches. Take note of the rider’s position. At a walk, the horse’s head is upright, ...