Red tenderness. (2026) Original Oil Painting by Anna Bessonova (Kotelnik)

Red tenderness.

I chose this image not only because of the bright, beautiful red coat. I was drawn to this horse's expression—the way she slightly tilts her head and lowers her gaze. Her appearance possesses a remarkable combination of strength, beauty, and softness.

She is very vibrant, almost fiery. Her coat is rich with rich red, golden, and deep red-brown hues. Yet, her gaze seems quiet and trusting. I wanted to preserve this contrast: a strong, beautiful animal that seems to become especially gentle at this moment.

In my work, it was important for me not only to accurately convey the horse's anatomy and character, but also to sense its inner state. I paid special attention to the highlights on the mane and neck, the deep colored shadows, and the soft transitions on the face. I wanted the dark areas to retain their color and life, while the bright red and golden accents remained vibrant.

The white streak on the muzzle became an important part of the image for me. It seems to collect the light and highlight the expression in the eyes without destroying the overall warmth of the painting.

The title "Red Tenderness" arose from the very nature of this gaze. For me, tenderness here isn't in the soft color or decorativeness—it's in the gesture, in the tilt of the head, in the lowered eyes. It's in the way a strong and vibrant creature momentarily becomes still.

I wanted to leave the viewer with precisely this feeling—the opportunity to stop next to her and feel her calm, warmth, and gentle strength.

About the original artwork

This is an original hand-painted oil painting. The surface retains the natural character of the painting process: visible brushwork, subtle variations in paint thickness and texture, and natural differences in gloss across the surface. These details are an inherent part of an original artwork created by hand and reflect the time, attention and craftsmanship invested in each canvas.

Color and photography

The painting is composed of complex shades and subtle color transitions that cannot be fully captured by a camera. The appearance of color may also vary slightly depending on the monitor or device used to view the artwork. I always make every effort to ensure that the photograph represents the original painting as accurately as possible.

Artwork and delivery

The painting is created in oil on canvas and is ready to be displayed.

For safe transportation, the artwork is carefully packed between 5 cm thick sheets of extruded polystyrene, providing reliable protection during shipping.

The painting is shipped with a tracking number and insured for its full artwork value.

If you have any questions about the painting, I will be happy to answer them.

Materials used:

Highest quality artists' oil paint, stretched canvas, oil medium, dammar varnish

Details:

• Oil painting on Canvas
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 40 x 60cm (unframed) / 40 x 60cm (actual image size)
• Ready to hang
• Signed on the front
• Style: Impressionistic
• Subject: Animals and birds