If the horse painting is realist style, then I think the proportions are out for my eyes. I think the horses cheek should be more pronounced. Coupled with that I think if you use more definition it may bring out the depth in your subject.
Also if the mane was this side, viewable it would also in my view add interest and a better visualisation.
The second trees picture does draw me into the gap but the whole picture seems too symmetrical. Define the trees more and add "something" to allow the viewer to focus on once through the trees. It could just be a change of colour.
With the pencil, this very much realistic. One point and I know the horse has the right ear back, but it can also look unbalance or deformed. With these subjects, consider the pose of an alert horse, ears focused ahead where he or she is looking. That's a great portrait pose for animals.
Scraping all of that, if you're painting for enjoyment then it is your enjoyment and it's your style and you should paint what brings you good feelings.
Painting for money is what the market wants. But maybe that your style that they want!
