Mane Sail

This painting features the beautiful black Friesian mare Zarina, captured galloping through the shallow water at Holland-on-Sea. I was fortunate to photograph her during a photoshoot there, where I was particularly drawn to her powerful movement, striking presence and wonderfully flowing mane as she charged through the water.

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Zarina has an exceptionally long, luxurious mane, which is usually kept plaited up to keep it manageable. It was a real pleasure to capture it flowing freely in this painting, lifting and streaming in the sea breeze as she gallops towards the viewer. I loved the contrast between her dark, glossy coat and the soft, muted colours of the sea and sky, along with the sparkling splashes of water around her legs.

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I thoroughly enjoyed painting this piece, using a combination of traditional pastels and Pan Pastels to build up the rich tones and subtle highlights in Zarina's coat, while keeping the water and background loose and atmospheric. I wanted to capture not just her striking beauty, but also the energy, freedom and sheer presence of this magnificent mare.