His paintings reflect a personal pride in the people and geography of the Ukraine, most often depicting scenes from the Crimean coast. Kolesnik was giving his paintings a sense of warmth and overall cheerfulness. While his works did conform to the rules of Soviet Socialist Realism, the depth of Kolesnik's Ukranian pride and nationalism was undeniable.
Koldesnik participated in shows throughout the Ukraine and former Soviet Union. Furthermore, he exhibited internationally in France and Italy, as well as in Japan on eight separate occasions. In addition to numerous worldwide private collections, his works can be found in museums in Moscow, Kiev, Charkov, and Tokyo. He was an Honored Artist of the Ukraine and an Honored Artist of the USSR.
During his last years, Kolesnik lived and painted in Charkov, Ukraine and was a senior Professor at the Charkov Institute of Art.