235 Small Works Show at Frame of Reference

This year is the third annual 235 Small Works Show at Frame of Reference Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. It’s an honor to be invited and to show with a number of accomplished artists from all over the western United States. I completed two paintings for the show.

The first, A Tranquil Moment (9″ x 12″, pastel) was a painting started onsite by the Swan River and completed in the studio. It was a very warm spring day and our group of plein air painters had scattered throughout the grounds of “The Nest.” The venue sits on the banks of the Swan River and is a beautiful spot for a special occasion. There are numerous decks overlooking the river to paint from and one sees eagles overhead during a painting session. I was inspired to paint the reflections of the vibrant foliage in the slow moving water.

Francesca Droll, A Tranquil Moment, 9″ x 12″, pastel on archival board, dark wood frame and glass, $450

The second painting, Evensong (9” x 12”, pastel) was inspired by the beautiful landscape of the north shore of Flathead Lake. I often drive home in the evening and am rarely disappointed by the views along the highway. I’m hoping to paint more of this natural landscape before the inevitable march of development claims the scene.