Most of my paintings begin with one of my own photographs from somewhere I've explored in Michigan.
That photograph becomes my starting point. From there, I might adjust the composition, shift the light, simplify a shoreline, or change the colors to better capture the feeling I experienced. The finished painting often becomes something quite different from the original reference.
Every once in a while, though, I have a vision for a scene that simply doesn't exist in my photo library.
That's where this new 48x36 oil painting began.
I had a vision of a glowing Michigan sunset, peaceful water, shoreline grasses, and just the right combination of elements to create the feeling of the perfect evening along the lake. Since I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for in a single photograph, I began combining inspiration from several of my own reference images and memories from years of exploring Michigan's shoreline.
I started the painting while working at Peg Head in Grand Haven this past weekend, and today I'll continue developing those first layers here in my studio.
If you've ever seen one of my paintings in progress, you've probably noticed that I begin with a black canvas instead of a white one. The dark background allows the colors to glow, creates depth throughout the painting, and leaves subtle hints of black showing through. Over the years, it has become part of my signature style.
For me, painting isn't simply about recreating what I see. It's about creating a place that may not exist exactly as painted, but one that still feels like Michigan. A place that reminds us why we love being here.
That's one of the things I love most about creating original art. Sometimes the most meaningful places are the ones that exist only in the artist's imagination.
I'll look forward to sharing this painting as it develops over the coming weeks.
I'd love to hear from you—do you prefer artwork inspired by a real location you've visited, or are you drawn to places that exist only in an artist's imagination?
Warmly,
Christi M. Dreese
Fine Artist | Mural Artist | Owner, Dreese Fine Art & Framing
Creating a Brighter World Through Original Art.
If you're looking for artwork for a home, healthcare facility, or commercial project, I'd be happy to share my portfolio or discuss your vision.