Sabbi Gavrailov
Sabbi Gavrailov is a UK-based oil painter specialising in equestrian and portrait art.
His work combines classical technique with emotional depth, capturing the power of horses and the personality of people through rich, detailed brushwork. Originally from Bulgaria and now working in Hertfordshire, Sabbi is a self-taught artist with a distinct lineage, a distant relative of Zlatyu Boyadzhiev, one of Bulgaria’s most celebrated painters. He began his early development under the mentorship of contemporary Bulgarian artist Geno Lazarov.
Sabbi’s portraits have won multiple awards, including the “Visitors’ Choice Award” at the Harpenden Art Club Annual Exhibition in 2021, 2022, and 2024. His work has been recognised internationally for its excellence in figurative and portrait painting. In 2023, he launched his solo exhibition Roots at the Private Gallery and Art Museum Dimitar Georgiev (Plovdiv), followed by a public invitation from the Mayor of Brezovo to present it during the town’s cultural festival.
Working exclusively in oils, Sabbi develops his compositions from sketches and photographs, often attending workshops and live demos to refine his craft and share his techniques. His equestrian and portrait commissions are held in private collections across Europe, the Middle East, South America, a reflection of his global appeal and refined, timeless style.
LATEST NEWS
Evens and News
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Piano and Art -24-Oct 2025-Live demonstration and lecture for a private community and an art group in collaboration with Piano concerto. – Annual Charity initiative
- HAC Annual Exhibition-Harpenden, UK, 31st OCT-02nd-Nov, Annual Art Club Exhibition
Services
Art Workshops in Oils
Immerse yourself in the art of oil painting through my structured workshops, designed for artists who want to refine their technique, deepen their understanding of composition, and explore expressive brushwork. Each session focuses on classical principles combined with contemporary interpretation. All materials are provided, and groups are limited to ensure personal attention.
Live Art Demonstrations
I offer live painting demonstrations for art societies, galleries, and educational institutions. These sessions are a rare opportunity to observe my full painting process in real time — from the first sketch to the final layer — with detailed explanations of palette choices, mediums, and Old Masters-inspired techniques. Demonstrations can be tailored for portrait, equestrian, or still-life painting themes.
Private Tuition in Oils
For artists seeking focused, one-to-one guidance, I provide private tuition tailored to individual goals — whether you are a beginner learning fundamentals or an experienced painter developing a personal style. Sessions can cover technical mastery, composition, colour theory, or the subtleties of capturing character and atmosphere. Available in person or online by arrangement.