THE SOUL BEHIND THE SADDLE
Rooted in a lifetime spent in barns, show rings, and early-morning fields, Kimball Willson's paintings capture what can only be known through experience. Each canvas reflects the elegance of classical oil painting and the quiet authority of a lifelong connection with horses—creatures whose lives are intertwined with our own.
Your horse, your story.
Capturing the horsepower behind every heartbeat
BIO
Growing up outside of Rochester, New York, horses were at the center of my early life. As a teenager, I spent my days showing, training, and selling young horses, caring for them at the stables, and riding with some of the nation’s top trainers. I competed in the Medal and Maclay finals and at shows throughout the Northeast and Wellington, Florida, gaining a deep, firsthand understanding of horsemanship, discipline, and partnership.
When I wasn’t at the stables, I was in the art room. Still, like many creatives, I believed I needed to pursue a “real job,” leading me to study liberal arts and business rather than attend art school.
In the early 2000s, I lived in the Boston area, exercising and schooling horses for several stables before eventually relocating to San Diego, California. On the West Coast, entrepreneurship became my focus. I continued working with horses part-time while building a professional career that blended creativity, leadership, and business.
Nearly twenty years after stepping away from the easel, I returned to painting with clarity and purpose—recognizing that all of my experiences had quietly prepared me for this work. I’ve studied with many talented artists in the San Diego area and through online coursework. I’m deeply grateful to create art every day—bringing meaning, beauty, and joy to others.
Fun Facts
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I don't have a favorite color; I love all of them.
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I’m borderline millennial but identify as gen X, drive a manual transmission, and prefer talking to texting.
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I enjoy cooking. I’m 100% gluten free and love dark chocolate.
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Fitness is important to me for physical and mental health. In addition to riding, I lift weights 2-3 times per week.
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I also love TAKING art classes, learning new skills, and meeting new friends.
Society for Artistic Integrity
The Society for Artistic Integrity (SAI) is a membership platform and professional community for artists who choose to create without the use of generative Artificial Intelligence. SAI was founded to support and connect artists who are committed to preserving human creativity, craftsmanship, and authenticity in their work.
I created SAI after facing an ethical dilemma while working on a complex custom project for a corporate client. Confronted with questions about the role of AI in the creative process, I realized there was a need for a space where artists could uphold traditional artistic values, exchange ideas, and find support in maintaining integrity in their work.
SAI provides resources, guidance, and a community for artists who value skill, originality, and the human touch. Our mission is to champion creativity that is fully authored by the artist, offering both inspiration and accountability for those committed to ethical, hands-on artistic practice.
Artist Statement
I create custom equine portraits that celebrate the spirit, beauty, and individuality of each horse. My goal is to capture their essence, forging an emotional connection between the painting and its viewer. Using expressive realism, I bring each horse to life with a balance of detailed features and fluid brushwork, reflecting their unique personality. As a lifelong equestrian, I understand their power, passion, and independence, and I strive to convey that vitality in every piece. I am guided by the belief that creativity can make a difference. A portion of each commission supports animal rescue, allowing my portraits to bring joy to owners while helping animals in need.