Sanderson, Ruth – Unicorns 05 (end Ruth Sanderson

The composition presents a landscape dominated by a dramatic sky and a solitary equine figure in the foreground. The artist has employed a palette largely composed of earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted greens – which contribute to a sense of melancholy and timelessness. A turbulent sky, rendered with thick impasto strokes, occupies much of the upper portion of the canvas. Swirling clouds, tinged with pinks and yellows near the horizon, suggest an impending storm or perhaps the aftermath of one.
Below this tumultuous expanse lies a rolling landscape, delineated by layers of hills and vegetation. The terrain is bathed in a warm, diffused light that contrasts sharply with the cooler tones above. A distant structure, possibly a castle or fortress, sits atop a prominent hill, its silhouette illuminated by an intense orange glow emanating from behind it. This fiery backdrop introduces an element of mystery and potential danger to the scene.
In the foreground, a white equine creature strides purposefully towards the viewer. Its mane and tail are caught in what appears to be a gentle breeze, adding dynamism to the composition. The animal’s posture conveys both grace and determination; it seems to move with a singular purpose through this somewhat unsettling environment. A small, indistinct figure is visible further back in the field, seemingly observing the unicorns progress.
The subtexts within the painting are layered and open to interpretation. The presence of the equine creature, often associated with purity, innocence, and untamed nature, creates a sense of longing or perhaps a quest for something unattainable. The distant, fiery structure could symbolize power, conflict, or even destruction – elements that stand in stark contrast to the unicorn’s perceived virtue. The solitary figure in the field suggests observation, contemplation, or perhaps a yearning for connection with the mythical being. Overall, the work evokes a feeling of quiet drama and invites reflection on themes of isolation, hope, and the enduring power of myth.