Ruth Soller » Blog


5/1/2025 12:05:27 PM

Florida Panther Endangered

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We enjoyed trips to Florida while my son lived there. We drove out to Key West and visited galleries and museums in Naples and St. Petersburg. Visiting nature preserves, zoos, and botanical gardens provides rich resource material and inspiration for new paintings. Conservation and preservation of natural lands and endangered species is a growing passion.

I admit this challenging painting demanded much planning and reworking. I combined several resources to arrive at this composition. Imagine being in the wild Florida jungle and discovering an endangered Florida panther sunning on fallen logs in the Everglades.

Recently, I learned about a bridge built over land where numerous wildlife species cross under the highway and avoid automobile traffic. This is an example of man engineering a way to protect and coexist with wildlife.
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10/9/2024 10:47:19 AM

"Wildlife in Boulder County"

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I'm thrilled to present a feature artist show at Osmosis Gallery for the fall season of October through December 2024. My show "Wildlife in Boulder County" will feature eleven new oil paintings created while partnering with Wild Wings Art. My unique collection is based on plein air paintings of locations surrounding Niwot and includes wildlife native to the region.

Two special events offered for the public include entertainment and snacks. Kick off your holiday shopping during Enchanted Evening, Friday November 29th, 6-9 pm. Meet artist Ruth Soller at Osmosis Gallery, 290 Second Avenue, Niwot, CO 80544. Gallery Owner Anne Postle says, "the town of Niwot will be hopping!".

First Friday Art Walk at Osmosis Gallery will be Friday, December 6th, 6-9 pm. Meet artist Ruth Soller and learn about her new series "Wildlife in Boulder County". Find the perfect original gift for a family member or friend. Read More

5/20/2024 12:05:23 PM

Harmony in Peach and Lavender

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I painted this portrait of my granddaughter from photos I took of her practicing violin, adding the drape behind her for contrast. I found this oil portrait on cradled panel quite challenging as it has been a long time since I painted a realistic portrait. I'm happy with the results and hope to be able to pass this heirloom along to my granddaughter one day. Read More

2/8/2024 10:28:44 AM

Grey Wolf Moon

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This nocturne snow scene of a grey wolf howling at the full Wolf Moon is primarily from my imagination and painted over a prior snow scene. This unframed gallery wrapped original oil is available from my studio or my website. Click the link below:

https://www.solleroriginals.com/workszoom/5513162/grey-wolf-moon#/ Read More

1/10/2024 12:27:37 PM

Red Essential, Limitless Potential

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"Red Essential, Limitless Potential" opens Tuesday, Jan. 9th at Framed Image, Denver, CO, Two of my paintings included in this radiant exhibition are "Raindrops on Hibiscus" oil on birch, 18x24 and "Zang Mansion in Spring" oil on linen, 14x11. If you are in Denver I hope you will visit the show. RuthSoller.com

I perceive the Hibiscus flowers opening me to a broader vision of my abilities and of opportunities in the world around me. Fuchsia hues awaken me from the gentle gray tones of winter and energize me to see the brilliant abundance of new life in spring. The contrast of the variety of greens against the pinks causes a visual vibration that excites my eyes and creates positive emotions of joy and peace.

My magical landscapes express the healing power of color experienced in nature. Greens represent growth and refreshment while blues are serene and trustworthy. Feeling the awe of nature creates energy in our bodies which strengthens our health and increases our happiness. My purpose is to share positive emotions which bring peace and joy to our lives.

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9/26/2023 12:52:16 PM

Land & Lifestyles: Art of the West

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This exhibition showcases the Landscape and the LIfestyles of the people living in the West, today and in the past. From mountains to the plains, there is a wide diversity of land and lifestyles to be shown and how they may interact with one another. I'm pleasesd to present five paintings in this juried Broomfield, CO gallery show. This show is open Friday, Oct 20, Saturday, Oct 21, and Sunday, Oct 22 at Life in the West Art Gallery, 555 Alter St, Unit 3, Broomfield, CO.

"Twilight in Rocky Mountain National Park" just won an international Special Recognition Award in the current Healing Power of Elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire Exhibition sponsored by Healing Power of Art and Artists in Manhattan, NY. "Boreas Pass Aspens", "Red Fox at Laurey's Farm", "Clouds at Anne Brand Park", and "Autumn at North Teller Lake" are included in this show. Read More

9/17/2023 12:49:36 PM

Healing Power of Elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire

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We recently shared a family vacation in Rocky Mountain National Park. I was eager to photograph this scene of the headwaters of the Colorado River at sunset. A magical glow from the setting sun cast yellow rays between mountain ridges and created orange edges around distant pines.Gentle curves of the flowing river below filled the air with calming, gurgling sounds. This peaceful composition illustrates how nature has begun to heal the land after devastating forest fires.

I'm honored that my painting "Twilight in Rocky Mountain National Park" is included in Healing Power of Elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire" by Manhattan Arts International along with 75 selected artists worldwide. Renée Phillips, Founder, Director & Curator of Manhattan Arts International describes the show,

"The Healing Power of Elements" exhibition will present art that is positive and uplifting inspired by one or more elements - Earth, Water, Air and Fire. The exhibition will convey a broad range of interpretations of the elements by more than 75 artists. It will convey that Art created in this manner provides a significant power in our healing process." Read More

7/19/2023 9:52:59 AM

Twilight in Rocky Mountain National Park

Ruth Soller / Comment on this

We recently shared a family vacation in Rocky Mountain National Park. I was eager to photograph this scene of the headwaters of the Colorado River at sunset. A magical glow from the setting sun cast yellow rays between mountain ridges and created orange edges around distant pines.Gentle curves of the flowing river below filled the air with calming, gurgling sounds. This peaceful composition illustrates how nature has begun to heal the land after devastating forest fires.

 

 

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4/20/2023 1:19:09 PM

Spring Rabbit

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Spring Rabbit, oil on canvas, 9x12, original available

I spied this rabbit on one of my morning walks and decided to paint him in this lovely spring flower garden of daffodils and grape hyacinths. I enjoy painting the beauty of nature that I often find nearby in my own yard or my neighborhood. This piece is galery wrapped and painted around the edges, ready to display in your home or as a gift for a nature lover.

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2/15/2023 11:38:35 AM

Life in the West Gallery - Artists Favorite

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You're cordially invited to Life in the West Gallery Artist's Favorite Event February 17-19, 2023

3 Days Only: Hours: Fri. Feb. 17, 3-8 pm Sat. Feb. 18, 12-7 pm Sun. Feb. 19, 11 am-6 pm

555 Alter Street, Unit 3 Broomfield, CO 80020 phone 720-217-2029

I'm pleased to be included in this National Show among 64 artists from 19 states.

I am showing "Trail Blazers Zapata Ranch" "Starter" and "Frozen Creek Study".

I'd love to see you at this local event.

If you have questions please contact me at [email protected]

 

 

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8/30/2022 12:29:28 PM

National Parks and Western paintings published in BLINK Art Resource

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National Parks and Western Landscape paintings featured in BLINK Art Resource 2022.  

 

Blink Art Resource is distributed to interior architects, interior designers, interior decorators, and art industry professionals. My original oil paintings are designed for healthcare art, hospitality art, and corporate art installations. Currently my art is showcased at  Governor Polis's office in Colorado State Capitol, Framed Image in Denver, and ADC Fine Art in Cincinnati, OH. Other paintings are available for purchase directly from my website www.RuthSoller.com. Collections include National Parks, Studio Landscapes, Figurative,  Animal, and Floral.

 

If you are looking for custom designed art for your home or office, please email me [email protected] to discuss your project. 

 

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8/1/2022 9:03:46 AM

Solo Show National Parks & Cloudscapes

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6/10/2022 9:52:03 AM

Colorado Day Exhibit at Colorado State Capitol

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Maroon Bells and Lake, oil on canvas, 24x30, on loan currently

 

I hope that you are well and enjoying family get togethers and spending time in the beauty of nature. You may have favorite locations you dream of visiting or that you return to over the years. I've dreamed of exhibiting at the State Capitol since moving to Colorado in 2004. Two of my National Parks series were displayed at Denver International Airport and scheduled to travel next to the Colorado State Capitol. To my deep disappointment, there wasn't enough wall space for all the paintings at the Capitol and mine were culled.

 

Today I'm honored that Maroon Bells and Lake is accepted in the 2022 Colorado Day (August 1st) Exhibition at the Colorado State Capitol, celebrating Colorado's 146 years as a state. Colorado artists were chosen for their creative interpretations of Colorado land, cities, or towns. Selected works will be on display at the Colorado State Capitol Complex, including the Governor's Office, the Lieutenant Governor's Office, and the basement rotunda from August 1, 2022 through October or November 2022. For more information contact Ruth Wilson, Public Art Program Manager at [email protected]. 

 

Maroon Bells and Lake is one of the most photographed scenes as it is awe inspiring to contemplate. The Maroon Bells are located in the White River National Forest and may be accessed by hiking or bus, as parking is very limited. Wildflowers and lush foliage covered the valley floor while an overcast morning gave way to clear sky by noon, perfect for a picnic lunch on the shore. This studio landscape painted entirely with palette knife is based on my plein air study.

 

         Colorado State Capitol

Shown in a gallery                                                  Colorado State Capitol

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4/5/2022 11:05:25 AM

Raindrops on Hybiscus chosen for Healing Power of Color

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I'm honored that my "Raindrops on Hybiscus" oil painting is selected along with 100 artists worldwide for "The Healing Power of Color" Exhibition 2022 published on The Healing Power of Art and Artists website by curator Renee Phillips, founder of Manhattan Arts International.

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3/28/2022 12:05:18 PM

"Raber Cabin Grand Mesa National Forest" Purchased

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Raber Cabin Grand Mesa National Forest ©Ruth Soller , SOLD

 

Are you as excited for spring to arrive as I am? Steve planted new bulbs last fall in our flower bed and we look for new color each day. A few days ago yellow crocus opened their sunny petals and today rich purple crocus bloomed. Art sales are blossoming, too. Raber Cabin on Grand Mesa National Forest traveled to a new collector in Maine, remarkably finding a new home with a granddaughter of Bill and Winifred Raber!

 

Bill Raber and his new bride Winifred bought the Lucas Ranch on Kannah Creek in 1938. On the original cabin door was penned this inscription," May 25 1938 Four feet of snow and spring still coming, Bill Raber, Crafts Black." The cow camp built in 1931 or 1932 included grazing rights to 160 acres. It may have been early July before the snow melted, so they could bring the cows up from Kannah Creek. Winifred claimed that during roundups as many as 20 people would stay in the two cabins, hanging blankets to provide privacy for the women.

 

I'd like to remind you that I accept commissions (custom orders) for a painting of your favorite landscape, home or pet. Begin the process by emailing your ideas to [email protected] today.

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1/12/2022 10:16:33 AM

Minerva Terrace Yellowstone

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Minerva Terrace Yellowstone, oil on linen, 24x30

I'm thrilled to present the newest painting in my National Parks series entitled "Minerva Terrace Yellowstone". My inspiration came from visiting Yellowstone three times (early 1970's, 1990, and 2005) and noticing changes in shapes and colors of formations. My intention was to emphasize the contrast of dark purples against sunlit white terraced pools. I added the cascading viridian mineral water flowing down the tiers to guide the eye through the painting. I love the complementary colors of the red-orange rock steps against the turquoise of the water and sky.

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12/18/2021 10:47:29 AM

Columbine Lake June Study

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Our family took a long weekend at Rocky Mountain National Park where we rented a lovely home with a deck overlooking Columbine Lake. I painted this plein air oil landscape view from the deck. The early morning was quiet and refreshing as the sun rose over the mountains.

Holiday Gift Ideas through December 31, 2021

 

My plan is to post one new painting per day, on days that I am in my studio and am not traveling. Artworks in this section are being offered at a discount. Prices listed are for unframed original paintings. Shipping included for lower 48 states US. Use PayPal or your credit card to purchase directly from this page. You do not need to have an account with PayPal to use your credit card.

 

If you have questions please contact me at [email protected]

Thank you for visiting and Happy Holidays!

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7/12/2021 10:31:34 AM

Gilded Coast Cloudscape

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Guilded Coast Cloudscape is fourth in my abstract cloudscape series. I created this original oil on linen painting based on a dramatic sky I photographed from my back yard. I saw in the photo an aerial view of an ocean with golden gilded coastlines on islands covered by turbulent violet-grey cloud forms. Dark sea creatures swam in the foreground as the yellow-orange sunset reflected in the turquoise sea.

If you enjoy this piece, it would mean so much to me to hear your thoughts. Please reply with your comment. Read More

2/26/2021 1:23:12 PM

Apocalypse Cloudscape

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This is the second painting in my new series of Abstracted Cloudscapes. This painting was inspired by a sunrise photograph I took in January 2020. I found the cloud formation foreboding, as if an unknown threat was rapidly descending upon us. How true this feeling turned out to be. Examining my collection of cloudscape photos taken during 2020 and before, I selected a group which portrayed a variety of emotions to me. Now I am working on translating the images to paintings and I hope the series will be meaningful to you.

Please take a moment to reply in a comment the feeling or emotion this piece creates for you. Read More

2/9/2021 11:42:29 AM

Green Caboose

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This acid green Burlington Northern caboose has seen better days before it was uncoupled and left to the graffiti artists on a side track below Hunter Douglas headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado. I love the abstract shapes and bold colors of this design. In the background you see the Boulder Flatirons, so named because of their resemblance to the early pioneer irons for clothing which had to be heated on the wood stove top or the hearth before ironing. Read More

2/1/2021 12:52:47 PM

Silver Lining Cloudscape

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Silver Lining Cloudscape is the first in a new series of original oil paintings. This series of cloudscapes is focused on emotions expressed by viewing light, color harmonies, and symbolic patterns in the skies. In this piece I am experimenting with the application of the paint with both pallette knife and with brushes. My feeling expressed in this cloudscape is that even in very confusing and unstable times if we focus on the creator and his creation of nature, we eventually see the silver lining. For me, the silver lining is the inspiration for new work.



If you experience an emotion while viewing this painting, please share by replying with a comment. Read More

1/26/2021 6:16:51 PM

Landscape Artist of the Year Award

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I'm honored to receive the Landscape Artist of the Year Award at ADC Gallery West's gorgeous 13,000 square foot new showplace in Cincinnati, OH. More than 3000 artworks were entered from across the US and Internationally, with 300 pieces selected for the Art Comes Alive! Awards Presentation and Reception on January 23, 2021. My oil painting Grandview Sunset Grand Canyon is in the exhibition through March 19, 2021.

 

The new gallery is designed and furnished with stunning sitting areas and lit by two brilliant chandeliers. Private and corporate collectors were on hand to present purchase awards to artists. Gallery contracts and magazine articles were awarded. We enjoyed a meet and greet at ADC Gallery East with Gallery Director Cassandra giving us a tour of the featured show of four women artists.

 

Steve and I toured The Taft Historic House/ Taft Museum of Art and learned about the history of Cincinnati and the support for emerging artists by patrons and sponsors from the 1830's to the present. Sunday, Cincinnati Art Museum featured native artist Frank Duveneck's (1848-1919) career and contributions to the city. I learned about an artist I had admired but had not studied previously.

 

http://ruthsoller.com/workszoom/3735299#/

 

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1/5/2021 11:04:20 AM

Lone Star Quilt & Western Saddle

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This Lone Star Quilt in red, white and blue was pieced by my great-grandmother Laura Cline Chance for my father Lloyd Stephens. My grandmother Lela Mae Chance Stephens had it quilted by a group of ladies in her hometown Cornerville, Arkansas. This treasured heirloom was passed on to me by my father. The beautifully hand-carved leather western saddle belonged to my riding instructor Corinne Schindler who manages Acres of Opportunity Ranch for rescued horses in Lafayette, Colorado.

I love the idea of combining these symbols of American patriotism with the legendary cowboy of the American West. This is one of my most realistic paintings to date as I spent a lot of time and care in modeling the diamond pieces of the quilt and the carved and stitched leather of the saddle. I'm very pleased with the result and hope that you enjoy the painting. Read More

11/22/2020 9:39:03 AM

Great White Buffalo Nocturne, Badlands NP

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Legend of the White Buffalo

I learned of this legend passed down by the Lakota Sioux of South Dakota after visiting the Badlands and viewing herds of buffalo. The white buffalo is extremely rare, said to occur only once in 6 million births. White buffalo are considered sacred to the Lakota Sioux and may have spiritual significance similar to weeping statues, bleeding icons or crosses of light in some Christian traditions. White buffalo symbolize abundance and sacred life as evidenced in this legend.

One summer long ago seven council fires of Lakota Sioux met together to discuss their lack of game as the people were starving. Two young braves were sent out to hunt in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

A beautiful young woman with long dark hair and dressed in buckskin and carrying a bundle wrapped in a buffalo hide appeared before the young hunters. She told them that she knew their thoughts and that one had good thought and one had bad thoughts. A cloud of dust rose around the man with lustful thoughts and only a skeleton was left. The second hunter was very frightened but listened to the holy woman’s message.

The woman said that change was coming and soon there would be an abundance of buffalo, but there would also be trials as the climate of the earth was changing. Her message was that all people of every color must work together if they hoped to thrive in the future. She gave the bundle containing a sacred pipe to the young brave to share with the tribes. The sacred pipe has been honored and passed down for nineteen generations.

As the woman departed she tumbled four times and changed in color from black to red to yellow and finally to a white buffalo calf. Soon after the visit of the holy woman herds of buffalo became abundant. It is believed that the changing colors of the woman represent all races of humans, who must work together in unity to save our earth for future generations. The Native Americans see the white buffalo calf as a sign of life’s sacred circle.

Source: http://www.lightningmedicinecloud.com/legend.html Read More

11/7/2020 10:57:33 AM

Nina at Newspaper Rock

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We enjoyed visiting Mesa Verde and toured several of the cliff dwellings including Cliff Palace and Long House and Spruce Tree House. One balmy evening we visited the Cortez Cultural Center where we experienced Ute tribe storyteller Reggie Lopez and his three lovely daughters who performed dances in dresses of the Ute tribe. Storm clouds threatened a downpour as a glorious double rainbow graced the eastern sky. I imagined traveling back 700 to 900 years in time when the cliff dwellings were occupied by hundreds of Native Americans.

Nina is painted at Newspaper Rock in southeastern Utah. Newspaper Rock is a petroglyph panel etched in sandstone that records approximately 2,000 years of early man’s activities. Prehistoric peoples, probably Archaic, Basketmaker, Fremont and Pueblo cultures, etched on the rock from B.C. time to A.D. 1300. In historic times, Utah and Navajo tribesmen, as well as Anglos, left their contributions. In Navajo, the rock is called “Tse’ Hane’” (rock that tells a story). Read More

10/26/2020 10:06:31 AM

Munson Farm Pumpkins

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I painted these cheerful pumpkins on location at Munson Farm in Boulder, CO, one warm October morning. This original oil painting is framed in a simple black wood frame. Shipping is included in the continental US.

How would this piece look in your fall decor to brighten your living or dining area for Halloween and Thanksgiving?
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9/27/2020 3:24:17 PM

Guanella Pass

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September is our favorite month to drive Gualella Pass from Grant to Georgetown, Colorado to view the changing colors of the quaking aspens from green to yellow-green, bright yellow, golden, orange, even red. I painted this piece after one of our leaf drives and I hope this painting brings happy memories to you. Read More

9/13/2020 2:14:48 PM

Bell Dance Taos Pueblo

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I'm thrilled my oil painting "Bell Dance Taos Pueblo" is chosen for an Award of Excellence in the Manhattan Arts International " Spirit of Resilience " online exhibition featuring eighty outstanding artists worldwide. My painting is available for purchase here: https://www.ruthsoller.com/workszoom/3779663#/

 

"The Puebloan tribes continue to live and work at Taos Pueblo showing the spirit of resilience since 1350 A.D. I painted Bell Dance Taos Pueblo of the pueblo at dusk lit by campfire. Energy and movement are shown by beads and bells on the costumes. The fire crackles and pops as the wafting smoke symbolizes the mystery of the traditional dance."

 

You may view the show here: healing-power-of-art.org/the-spirit-of-resilience-exhibition

 

Inspiration and Process - At Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art in Boulder, CO (now closed), I discovered Kenneth Riley’s inspiring 1991 oil painting “Dance Progressions” and began planning my own adventure into painting Native American dancers. My visit to Taos Pueblo and experience of Native American dancers at the motel fire pit gave me ample resources. Painting began with the evening sky, the mountains, and the Taos Pueblo as seen at dusk with a foreground campfire. I painted the darker elements of the elaborate Bell Dance costumes in analogous cool colors and then painted the hair and firelight glow of the skin tones. Several layers of progressively lighter tones built up the swirling skirts. 

 

 

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9/3/2020 5:48:24 PM

Trail Blazers Zapata Ranch

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On a crisp spring morning at Zapata Ranch, a wrangler releases quarter-horses out into green pastures. A chestnut, bay , sorrel, and palomino lead the herd while a white stallion plans his move to win the lead.

This original oil on linen is painted around the edges and is ready to hang unframed. Check out the View in Room feature below to see this painting in a variety of settings. You may purchase directly using PayPal and please contact me if you have questions. Read More

9/1/2020 10:35:02 AM

Twilight Trail Ride, Colorado National Monument

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Our cowboy guide Brain led us on the two hour sunset ride up into the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area and along breathtaking views of the changing skies and lengthening shadows of the wild sage. As we neared the rim of Devil’s Canyon I saw ahead that we were planning to traverse a one yard wide ledge jutting out from the red rock cliffs with a sheer drop-off of at least 200 feet into the canyon. As my horse Midnight neared the narrowest point I was sitting straight and very, very still while clutching the saddle-horn with white knuckled hands as my heart stopped. I kept my gaze on Brian up ahead, fearfull to look over the edge of the cliff. My heartbeat resumed as we soon reached more solid ground and Brain stopped to “give Midnight a chance to catch her breath”.

We had spectacular view on the deepening blues, violets, and mauves of the shadows and the brightening reds, corals, and golds of the last rays of the sun hitting the canyon rims. Below us lay the town of Fruita and the Colorado River meandering through the lush green vineyards and fruit orchards carpeting the valley. Beyond the valley were the Little Bookcliffs fading into the distant haze. What a joyful experience!

Next time you are in the Grand Junction, Fruita, or Palisades area, consider spending a few hours on horseback exploring the canyons in an exciting and memorable ride. Read More

8/14/2020 9:21:56 AM

Sunrise Grand Canyon SOLD

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We rose at 4:00 am, layered-on warm clothing, and made coffee. By 5:00 am, I had set up my plein air gear near the rim of the Grand Canyon at the Duck-on-a-Rock formation. President Dwight Eisenhower named this formation during his tour of the Grand Canyon. Still dark and with temperatures near 30 degrees, I mixed paints as the sky began to glow with the rising sun. My plein air sketch turned out pale and pastel, likely due to mixing paints in the semi-darkness. This newly completed version was painted as a demo for a children's art show, using my plein air sketch and my photograph as resources.

Have you watched a sunset or sunrise at the Grand Canyon? How did you feel during the experience? Read More

8/10/2020 4:13:43 PM

Moran Point Grand Canyon

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I'm pleased to present this landscape in my National Parks Series, Moran Point Grand Canyon. This piece is all about reflected light of the setting sun at dusk casting an other-worldly glow into canyon crevasses. I'm using a complementary color harmony of blue violets and red violets contrasting with the yellow orange glow of sunlight and the warm greens of the foliage. The vast structures of eroded rock are simplified and organized into geometric patterns creating a visually stimulating and pleasing design. Read More

7/28/2020 9:01:36 AM

Columbine Lake Study

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Recently our family gathered for a long weekend at Rocky Mountain National Park where we rented a lovely home with a deck overlooking Columbine Lake. I painted this plein air oil landscape view from the deck. The early morning was quiet and refreshing as the sun rose over the mountains.

 

What feelings does this piece evoke in you?

 

      

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7/15/2020 12:18:47 PM

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

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Last summer I traveled with my husband and Colorado Repertory Singers to Salzburg, Austria. After an exhausting 36 hours of travel to arrive at Salzburg, we were excited to take a morning walking tour of the beautiful and historic city. This studio oil painting is a pegasus fountain in Mirabell Gardens at the entrance to Mirabell Palace. I hope that you feel the joy of my uplifting and colorful painting. Read More

7/11/2020 10:15:33 AM

Saguaro Cactus Garden

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We visited Tucson for my neice's wedding and discovered lovely Tucson Botanical Gardens. This studio oil painting is a view of the Cactus and Succulent Garden giving you a feeling of the plant variety in the desert surrounding Tucson. These gardens provide a tranquil and relaxing oasis in the center of the city.

Have you visited or lived in a desert? What did you discover about the plant or animal life there? Read More

6/30/2020 12:08:15 PM

Pawnee Buttes National Grasslands

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This original oil painting was commissioned by one of my new collectors of the Pawnee Buttes National Grasslands. We arrived early to photograph the sunrise in the park and I took shots of the wildflowers in bloom. Although this is a remote location acessed by a dirt road, several campers were on a bluff overlooking the buttes. Raptor nesting areas were blocked off from hikers. At sunrise all was peaceful and quiet.

Do you have a favorite location that you would love to have an original painting of? Please email me [email protected] to discuss your idea. Read More

6/16/2020 11:38:08 AM

Cottonwood Creek Grand Tetons

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I painted this original studio oil landscape of Cottonwood Creek near Jenny Lake with a background view of the iconic Grand Tetons in Grand Teton National Park. Notice how I emphasized the difference in shape and color of each of the trees along the creek. To portray distance the mountains in the background are lighter, cooler, and grayer than the trees. In the foreground water the shallower water near the bank reveals the stones and mud under the water in warmer hues, while the far shore reflects the cool blue of the sky.

What feelings or emotions does this painting inspire for you? Read More

6/10/2020 1:05:32 PM

Lily Lake Rocky Mountain NP

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I painted this plein air oil landscape of Lily Lake on the eastern border of Rocky Mountain National Park on a crisp and windy summer morning as ripples danced across the water. Steve enjoyed a scenic hike around the lake with wild flowers in bloom followed by a picnic lunch. This painting is part of my ongoing National Parks Series.

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6/1/2020 9:02:31 AM

Nymph Lake Rocky Mountain NP

Ruth Soller / Comment on this

I'm thrilled to share with you my oil painting in my National Parks series. Nymph Lake  in Rocky Mountain National Park is the second lake you will reach hiking up from the Bear Lake parking lot. I was attracted to the unusual yellow water lily flowers in Nymph Lake and had not seen these before. I learned that Nymph Lake was named after the flowers which reminded someone of water fairies or nymphs. This painting is about the lyrical pattern created by the shapes of the lotus leaves floating on the water and interspersed with the yellow flowers and the stems beneath the water. Adding to the design are reflections of the pines along the shores along with light from the blue sky bouncing off the water's surface. I'm pleased with this analogous color harmony as well.

How many shades or tints of green can you find in this painting? How do you think each of these greens was mixed? Read More