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Flathead Valley is endlessly inspiring with its rural landscapes and big skies. This poetic scene is just north of Flathead Lake in farmland called Lower Valley which is south of Kalispell. Original pastel, framed Image size: 12" x 16" -
Swan River is one of four major rivers to flow into the north side of Flathead Lake. Swan River meanders from Swan Lake through a mountain valley and farmland where it eventually feeds into Bigfork Bay. Fishing on this peaceful river gives one the opportunity for meditation and reflection. Original pastel, framed Image size: 8" x 10" Framed size: 14.5" x 16.5" -
Farmland is still abundant in the Flathead Valley and haying season is so picturesque. The mountains in the background lead to Glacier National Park. Original pastel Image size: 16” x 12" Framed size: 23" x 19" -
Looking up into Big Arm on the west shore of Flathead Lake reveals a layering of mountains going far into the background. The sunset over this beautiful view is often stunning! Original pastel on archival board Image size: 12" x 16" Framed size: 16.25" x 20.25" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. Please contact the gallery (406-420-2453) to purchase or let me know if I can be of help or provide more information. -
One of the many peaceful ponds in the Flathead River valley. Softly bathed by the evening sun, the trees glowed orange and the reflections on the water were stunning. Original pastel on archival board Image size: 12" x 16" Framed size: 19" x 23" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana for the 2024 Small Works Show from December 13, 2024 – January 18, 2025. Opening reception December 13 from 5 – 8 pm. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
This imposing structure speaks eloquently about a past way of life. The land on which Blaisdell Barn sits in Somers, Montana, has reverted back to a wild fowl protected area and is only accessible when the birds are not breeding or raising their young. I was lucky to drive by on a warm late summer day. I stopped and enjoyed a wonderful afternoon standing in the tall grasses with only the birds chirping and the soft breeze as my companions. Original pastel painting Image size: 9" x 12" Please contact me if you're interested. Available framed for $595.00 or unframed for $450.00. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
Pack of notecards. Six different paintings included in the pack along with six white envelopes.All notecards are the same size: 7" x 5" High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.
Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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A peaceful spot in the Flathead Valley where the cattails were a golden ribbon surrounded by the verdant trees and grasslands. Painted on location with finishing touches in the studio.
Original pastel
Image size: 9" x 12" -
Flathead Valley is famous for their cherries. The lake creates a micro climate that is conducive to growing cherries and when it rains, the rain is of the light, misty sort which doesn’t damage the cherries as they are maturing on the limb. We wait impatiently for the cherries to become ripe for eating. All the extra are frozen to add to smoothies during the winter months. Original pastel Image size: 8” x 6" Framed size: 15" x 13" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. Price includes shipping. If the painting is purchased here on my site, FoR Fine Art will pack and ship it to you. There are no additional costs and no sales tax. -
Flathead cherries are a sweet summer treat for locals and tourists alike. Original pastel Image size: 8” x 6" Framed size: 15.5" x 13.5" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. Price includes shipping. If the painting is purchased here on my site, FoR Fine Art will pack and ship it to you. There are no additional costs and no sales tax. -
Cherries are one of the many delights of Flathead Valley. The unique microclimate around Flathead Lake allows these beauties to flourish. They are such a treat during the summer. Original pastel on archival board Image size: 8" x 6" Framed size: 15" x 13" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. Please contact the gallery (406-420-2453) to purchase or let me know if I can be of help or provide more information. -
Sunsets over Flathead Lake never disappoint. This view shows Big Arm on the west shore. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 24" Framed size: 16.5" x 28.5" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-420-2453) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
One of the many romantic old barns dotting the Flathead Valley farmland. This one stands at the north end of Flathead Lake and one sees it as they drive from Somers to Bigfork. As old barns are being torn down, I’m interested in painting them as a record of old Montana. Original pastel Image size: 6” x 8" -
From Bigfork, one can walk along the Swan River on the nature trail and enjoy its rushing and tumbling beauty. This view is in the fall when the river is running low and the trees are starting to turn color. The rocks protrude out of the peaceful current as the water dances around them.
Original pastel
Image size: 18" x 24" -
This pastel was painted on site during a beautiful evening down at Finley Point on Flathead Lake. This spectacular range of mountains begin in Bigfork and run the length of the lake and far down the Mission Valley. There is even a glacier on one of the peaks. A quote by John Muir comes to mind when I look at this painting, "The mountains are calling and I must go!"
Original pastel
Image size: 6" x 12" -
Sometimes it stretches the imagination to think that every sunset is unique. It’s just variations on color and cloud formations. The bonus being that it’s a surprise every evening as to what will be painted across the sky. Original pastel Image size: 12" x 9" -
This row of silos at the junction of Hwys 93 and 82 is a familiar view for most. I have always been intrigued to paint them but wasn’t sure the best way to capture them. I felt that highlighting the repetition of the shapes and reflections was best done by simplifying the scene to its essential warm and cool tones. Original pastel painting Image size: 15” x 12" Framed size: 18" x 15" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
The sunset on this particular evening was amazing with the variety of colors illuminating the sky and reflecting off of Flathead Lake. The sunsets are unique from day to day and always bring joy to one's heart. Original pastel on archival board Image size: 12" x 9" Framed size: 16.25" x 13.25" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. Please contact the gallery (406-420-2453) to purchase or let me know if I can be of help or provide more information. -
Montana is called big sky country for a good reason. There is often so much ‘big’ drama in the skyscapes. This was an evening when the sun broke under the clouds to wash the Salish Mountains in light. Original pastel Image size: 7” x 14" -
Driving home from Glacier National Park in midsummer, this beautiful sunset over the Flathead Valley farmland caught my eye. I shot photos out of the car window as we drove by. Rest assured, I was in the passenger seat. Strong perspective lines draw you into the painting and create a sense of presence as if you could smell the freshly rolled hay bales.
Original pastel
Image size: 24” x 12” -
The Swan River provides habitat for many species including this Great Blue Heron. I was fortunate enough to be kayaking by while this beautiful bird fished over the river. Original pastel painting Image size: 9” x 12" Framed size: 12" x 15" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
Pack of six notecards with a Holiday message. Includes six white envelopes.All notecards are the same size: 7" x 5" High quality paper printed in full color, holiday message.
Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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On a tranquil lake, an evening warmed with the fading sun, may feel like it’s made especially for you. It creates a sense of wonder and gratitude. For how could something so beautiful be anything but miraculous. Original pastel painting Image size: 30” x 12" Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
On Flathead Lake, the view west toward the setting sun touches a romantic chord. A moment when all is well and one feels part of a boundless spirit. The sunset on December 27, 2020 looking toward Big Arm from Woods Bay. Original pastel Image size: 30" x 12" -
On a beautiful July day, our plein air group was invited to Purple Mountain Lavender Farm on the west side of Flathead Lake to paint the lavender bloom at it’s peak. This charming set up was an invitation to sit, relax, and enjoy the sweet aroma surrounding us.
Original pastel
Image size: 12" x 16" -
Another beautiful day in the Flathead Valley painting en plein air. The blue sky contrasted beautifully with the warm tones of the lotus pads and the reflected trees in the water. It was a pleasure to stand and paint with the warm sun on my back and the dragonflies buzzing around. Original pastel painting Image size: 12” x 9" Framed size: 19" x 16" (Gallery quality wood frame with gold leaf.) This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist.
©Francesca Droll
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In early spring, before the trees bud and sprout, the earthy colors are vibrant in gold, orange, and maroon tones. In the background, the Swan Range is still blanketed in snow. The north shore of Flathead Lake is a wonderful place to walk when the water level is down for the winter—a popular spot for the locals and their dogs. Original pastel Image size: 11” x 14 -
This scene was painted on location in the early morning light with the view toward Glacier National Park seen in the background in the notch between the mountains. This pond is home to many waterfowl and is a resting spot for migrating birds.
Original pastel
Image size: 9” x 12” -
There is nothing that feels so sacred as a beautiful sunrise spreading over abundant farmland. It connects your soul to the land and to an earlier era in deep and profound ways. In this piece, the warm tones contrast engagingly against the cool lavenders and pinks of the morning sky. Original pastel painting Image size: 18” x 18" Framed size: 21" x 21" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
The east side of Flathead Lake is lush with cherry orchards as the micro climate is ideal for growing this delicious fruit. A painter friend invited us down to Finley Point to plein air paint when the trees were in full bloom. There were also newborn lambs but that is the subject for another painting. Original pastel Image size: 9" x 12" -
Summer evenings on Flathead Lake can make you believe that you have found Paradise. For those of us living through the winters, summer is our reward for having patience during the cold months. The feeling of jumping into the cool, clean lake water on a hot summer day is a true gift. Original pastel, framed Image size: 12" x 24" Framed size: 18.5" x 30.5" -
One of the many charming farms throughout the Flathead Valley in northwest Montana. One feels the peaceful tranquility of a less hectic life set among the mountains and streams. Original pastel painting Image size: 9" x 12" Please contact me if you're interested. Available framed for $595.00 or unframed for $450.00. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
This plein air outing was a welcome surprise. I had often seen this rural setting as I drove by but didn't realize it is part of gardens that are open to the public. It was such a magical day with the vibrant cumulus clouds proclaiming 'Big Sky Country.' I'll be going back to paint this idyllic landscape again...and again! Original pastel Image size: 9” x 12" Framed size: 16" x 19" (Gallery quality black wood frame with gold inset.) This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana as part of their "235 Small Works Show" on display and available for purchase until January 13, 2024. Price includes shipping in the continental U.S. If the painting is purchased here on my site, FoR Fine Art will pack and ship it to you. No sales tax and no other charges apply. -
This painting was inspired by an area that is just behind my home in Woods Bay on the shores of Flathead Lake. Although I changed the scene a bit with my artist license, the feeling of the place is captured here with a touch of mystery added to draw you into the path between the trees. Notecard size: 7" x 5" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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When the light filters through the trees and casts shadows on the landscape, magic happens. The water reflects prisms of color. Notecard size: 5" x 7" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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Bigfork, Montana is surrounded by picturesque farmland. The sky is often changing with dramatic clouds shifting overhead. The colors of the growing season are vibrant and alive. Such an inspiration for the creative spirit. Notecard size: 7" x 5" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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This landscape was inspired while painting outdoors at the Ninepipe Wildlife Refuge in the Mission Valley of northwest Montana. This area provides sanctuary for many animals including ducks, geese, badgers, muskrats, porcupine, and the occasional bear. Notecard size: 5" x 7" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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One morning, while camping on Horseshoe Lake, I awoke early to this view of the mist over the water. How extraordinary. I couldn’t help myself. I dressed quickly and slipped into my kayak to glide through that magical experience. Notecard size: 5" x 7" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.
Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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This is one of the Rock ‘n’ Flow series inspired by an 11-day trip into the backcountry of the Great Bear Wilderness. The nature of water is interesting in that it is both transparent and reflective creating a stunningly vibrant effect. Notecard size: 5" x 7" with white envelope High quality paper printed in full color, blank interior.Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S.
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This view is of a rather nondescript spot on Crane Mountain which bounds Flathead Lake on the northeast side. I was hiking one afternoon during late winter and the sun was low on the horizon which created a beautiful pattern of light and shadow on the golden grasses. Original pastel Image size: 9” x 12" -
On the western side of Flathead Valley there are "pothole ponds." A natural upwelling of springs that create ponds throughout the farmland. Every year a multitude of migrating birds stop here to feed in the fields and rest to continue their journey north.
Original pastel
Image size: 9” x 12” -
Wayfarers Park is a very popular destination with swimming and boating access to Flathead Lake. It also has quite a few campsites and is filled with vacationers in the summer. The interesting rock formations provide natural stairways. It is a lush and beautifully wild landscape. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 16" -
Sunsets over Flathead Lake can be pure poetry. One is awestruck at the sheer beauty of light. My hope is that this unrivaled landscape remains as pristine as possible and is treasured by all who live here and those who visit. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 36" -
The Swan River offers so many views to paint if you’re willing to walk the couple of miles into the heart of the Swan River nature trail. I have yet to lug my backpack of gear into the heart but I’m working toward that. Original pastel painting Image size: 20” x 16" Framed size: 23" x 19" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
Sunsets over Flathead Lake are extraordinary and leave one breathless. This amazing sunset highlighted the terrain of Big Arm on the western shore. Original pastel painting Image size: 12” x 36" Framed size: 16.5" x 40.5" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Bigfork, Montana. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-420-2453) for details or I'm happy to assist. -
As the storm clouds dissipate, the peach tones of the sunset peek through. Looking up into Big Arm from the east side, the islands stand out and are a fun place to explore but better on a calm summer day. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 9" -
This painting was inspired by an area that is just behind my home in Woods Bay on the shores of Flathead Lake. Although I changed the scene a bit with my artist license, the feeling of the place is captured here with a touch of mystery added to draw you into the path between the trees.
Original pastel
Image size: 16" x 12" -
This scene of Ashley Creek was painted during the change of seasons with the beautiful golds and lavenders reminiscent of autumn in the Flathead Valley. Started on location and finished in the studio.
Original pastel
Image size: 14" x 11" -
During spring in Flathead Valley, the fields are surprisingly colorful as all manner of wildflowers come to life. Each wildflower has its own time and the colors in the landscape roll through pinks, yellows, and blues. I captured a photo of this field after having a delicious breakfast at Echo Lake Cafe in Bigfork, Montana.
Original pastel
Image size: 16" x 12" -
This is one of my favorite old barns to paint on Hwy 82. With every passing year, it becomes a little more battered by the weather. I’m sure one of these years it will collapse entirely. As long as it stands, I’ll keep exploring new versions of it with my pastels. Original pastel painting Image size: 24” x 20" Framed size: 27" x 23" This painting is showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. If you're interested, please contact the Gallery (406-730-8855) for details or I'm happy to assist.
