Moss & Mane

$4,000.00

Moss & Mane by Ashleigh Ritchie captures a close, quiet moment between two horses, their heads gently leaning together in a way that feels instinctive and calm. Their eyes are soft, almost lowered, as if the moment is shared just between them.

Moss, ferns and leaves rest through their manes and along their foreheads, settling naturally into the contours of their forms. The greenery doesn’t feel placed, it feels like it belongs there, softening their strength and tying them back to the land around them.

There’s a clear sense of trust between the two, something familiar and unforced. They lean in without hesitation, steady and at ease, creating a moment that feels grounded and real rather than staged.

The darker background holds them in that stillness, letting the warmth of their coats and the green tones come forward. Nothing distracts from the connection. It’s simple, quiet, and strong.

It’s a piece about connection, and a kind of beauty that feels real, grounded, and enduring.

Original Board Size: 600mm x 900mm

With Black Pine Frame: 655mm x 950mm

Original Painting
Hand-painted and signed by Ashleigh Ritchie, using high-quality, artist-grade oil paints on a prepared wood panel. Each original is crafted with care to ensure lasting beauty and depth of colour.

Completed: 2026

Moss & Mane by Ashleigh Ritchie captures a close, quiet moment between two horses, their heads gently leaning together in a way that feels instinctive and calm. Their eyes are soft, almost lowered, as if the moment is shared just between them.

Moss, ferns and leaves rest through their manes and along their foreheads, settling naturally into the contours of their forms. The greenery doesn’t feel placed, it feels like it belongs there, softening their strength and tying them back to the land around them.

There’s a clear sense of trust between the two, something familiar and unforced. They lean in without hesitation, steady and at ease, creating a moment that feels grounded and real rather than staged.

The darker background holds them in that stillness, letting the warmth of their coats and the green tones come forward. Nothing distracts from the connection. It’s simple, quiet, and strong.

It’s a piece about connection, and a kind of beauty that feels real, grounded, and enduring.

Original Board Size: 600mm x 900mm

With Black Pine Frame: 655mm x 950mm

Original Painting
Hand-painted and signed by Ashleigh Ritchie, using high-quality, artist-grade oil paints on a prepared wood panel. Each original is crafted with care to ensure lasting beauty and depth of colour.

Completed: 2026

Care Instructions
Your original Ashleigh Ritchie artwork is a one-of-a-kind creation, hand-painted with high-quality, artist-grade oil paints on prepared wood panel. With the right care, it will remain vibrant and beautiful for generations to come.
Please follow these guidelines to help preserve its colour, texture, and the connection it brings to your space.

Handling

Handle your artwork as little as possible. When moving it, hold by the edges of the panel or frame, never the painted surface. Avoid touching the paint directly, as the natural oils from your skin can leave marks over time. If resting the piece temporarily, make sure the surface is clean, dry, and cushioned — never place the artwork face down.

Sunlight Exposure

Oil paintings should be displayed out of direct sunlight. Even the most lightfast pigments can fade or shift if exposed to strong UV rays over time. Indirect light is ideal, and if your chosen spot gets bright sun, consider UV-filtering glass or an appropriate framing option.

Environment

Display your painting in a space with stable temperature and humidity. Avoid placing it near heat sources, air conditioning vents, or areas prone to dampness such as bathrooms or kitchens. Rapid changes in environment can cause the wood panel to expand or contract, which may affect the surface over time.

Cleaning

Never use water, household cleaners, or solvents on your painting. To remove dust, gently sweep the surface with a clean, soft-bristle artist’s brush or lightly wipe with a lint-free cloth. Use minimal pressure and avoid rubbing. For stubborn marks, consult a professional art conservator.

Storage & Transport

If your artwork needs to be stored or transported, wrap it first in acid-free tissue or glassine, then add a layer of bubble wrap for cushioning. Avoid placing plastic directly against the painted surface, as it can trap moisture. Store upright in a dry, climate-controlled space, ideally in a sturdy art box or crate for added protection.

With thoughtful care, your Ashleigh Ritchie original will continue to bring beauty, colour, and connection into your life — just as it was created to do.