Every artist has a moment when a landscape speaks to them, a scene that demands to be captured on canvas. For me, that moment came on a crisp autumn morning, standing before a quiet marsh as the sun's first light began to awaken the colors of the world. The painting you see, titled "Solitude's Sanctuary," is my attempt to share that feeling of profound peace and connection with nature.
The vibrant reds, oranges, and golds of the trees lining the distant shore seemed to hum with life, a final burst of energy before the quiet of winter. But it was the water that truly held my attention. The still surface of the marsh acted as a perfect mirror, not just reflecting the sky and the trees, but also deepening their colors and creating a second, upside-down world. The golden reeds and grasses, a chaotic tangle on the bank, became a dance of light and shadow in their reflection.
Creating this piece was a process of both observation and emotion. It was less about painting every single leaf and blade of grass, and more about capturing the overall mood—the stillness, the brilliant light, and the sense of a hidden, private place. The strokes in the painting are meant to convey that energy and movement within the calm. I wanted the colors to feel alive, to resonate with the warmth I felt on that morning.
I'm excited to share a glimpse into the creation of this piece with you. You'll find a video of the painting process accompanying this post, offering a look behind the scenes at how "Solitude's Sanctuary" came to be. Watching the layers of color build, the reflections of the marshland take shape, and the final details bring the scene to life, I hope it gives you a deeper appreciation for the journey of this painting and inspires you to find your own moments of solitude in nature.
-Christi Dreese