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An early morning ride up to Logan Pass in Glacier National Park to watch the sunrise was an inspiring adventure. I did one painting on site when the sun was full up. This one was painted in the studio from a photo and the memory. The sun rose too fast to capture this lovely light in those first few minutes of dawn. Original pastel painting Image size: 8” x 16" Framed size: 11" 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. -
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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Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Glacier National Park. Although not as colorful as the east coast hardwoods, Glacier is still stunning in yellows and golds. The Park settles down as it slides into winter. Original pastel, framed Image size: 12" x 16" -
This painting came from a day spent outdoors in the Nine Pipes National Refuge. It is a stunning landscape awash with birds and the Mission Mountains as the backdrop.
Original pastel
Image size: 12" x 16" -
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. Painted in the studio with a photo and my memory to guide me.
Original pastel
Image size: 12" x 16" -
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. -
Wildflowers are abundant during the spring, summer, and fall months here in northwest Montana. These wild geraniums caught my eye with sunlight splashed across them. Original pastel painting Image size: 12” x 9" Framed size: 15" x 12" 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 sunset was painted in support of the LGBTQ+ community in June of 2023. All the colors of the rainbow are represented in the sunset. 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 is the third in 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.
Original pastel
Image size: 18" x 24" -
Water and light are synergistic. Water is see through but light bounces off of it or shines through it for stunning effect. I never tire of exploring how light is experienced in the landscape. Original pastel painting Image size: 18” x 24" Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
Original pastel Image size: 12” x 16" -
Sabino Canyon and the surrounding area are a comforting landscape. The peaches and turquoises of the mountains and plants are soothing to the soul. Walking through the terrain, one feels a sense of peace and well-being. Original pastel painting Image size: 18” x 36" Framed size: 24" x 42" 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. -
Sabino Canyon has a myriad of trails leading through an abundant desert landscape toward the canyon. Spending an afternoon here never disappoints. Original pastel Image size: 20” x 30" Framed size: 28" x 38" 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. -
During a trip through the southwest one year, I was fortunate to meet up with some of my Montana buddies who were painting en plein air around the Sedona area. What a mecca of red-hued landscapes for inspiration. I looking forward to revisiting someday. Original pastel Image size: 18” x 24" Please contact me if you're interested. 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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Aspens are wonderful trees to paint anytime of year. In the spring and summer their leaves twinkle and whisper in the wind. In the winter, their bark reflects a spectrum of colorful light and I think of them as sleeping beauties. I photographed this stand up the North Fork and painted them in the studio. Original pastel Image size: 12" x 9" -
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” -
Spring in the Swan Corridor near Condon in northwest Montana is a challenge for an outdoor painter. One is always waiting for the light that is so often fleeting as the heavy clouds move through. At this moment, a spring sun illuminated the meadow beyond. This was painted onsite with a few touches added in the studio.
Orignal pastel
Image size: 12" x 9" -
Sabino Canyon is the jewel of Tucson and spring in Sabino Canyon is a floral paradise. If one catches it just right, the poppies and phlox bloom like a carpet. Hiking here on a beautiful spring day makes the heart soar! Original pastel Image size: 16” 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" -
The beauty of Flathead Lake sunsets never cease to inspire the creative spirit. This view is from Woods Bay on the east shore. This sunset graced the lucky viewers on August 19, 2020.
Original pastel, framed Image size: 7" x 14"
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Serenity is in abundance on a beautiful June day in the Mission Valley. The Ninepipes Waterfowl Area is full of inspiring scenes for this landscape painter. Original pastel painting Image size: 9” x 12" Framed size: 16" x 19" 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. -
The skyscape is ever changing over Flathead Lake. This was a beautifully calm day when the sun sent shimmering sparkles across the surface of the lake. 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. -
Take a walk into this desert sunset highlighting the landscape of saquaros and other desert plants. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 24" Framed size: 19.5" x 31.5" -
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" -
Serenity is in abundance on a beautiful June day in the Mission Valley. The Ninepipes Waterfowl Area is full of inspiring scenes for this landscape painter. Original pastel painting Image size: 9” x 12" Framed size: 13.5" x 16.5" This painting is showing at Brea Gallery in Orange, California for the "Pastels USA: 99 Voices" exhibit running from October 12 – December 6, 2024. If you're interested, click here to go to the painting on the Brea Gallery's online store or contact the Gallery (714-990-7731) for details. I'm happy to assist. -
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. -
A beautiful afternoon walking on the Swan River Nature Trail in Bigfork, Montana. A popular walking trail for the locals, there are an endless variety of scenes to paint along the trail. Spring is lovely with the. bright green of new leaves. Original pastel on archival board Image size: 9" x 12" This piece is sold UNFRAMED. Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S. -
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. -
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 my Artist-Wilderness-Connection residency in the Great Bear Wilderness, an eagle would fly up and down our canyon fishing over the river every evening like clockwork. It was a stirring sight to see it soaring and gliding over us, its white head glinting in the sunset light.
Original pastel
Image Size: 7" x 14" -
Flathead Lake is touted as the largest fresh water natural lake west of the Mississippi with Lake Tahoe a close second. The sunsets are often stunning and never the same twice. Original pastel Image size: 18” x 36" Framed size: 24" x 42" -
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. -
The southwest has a unique beauty with tan and pink rocks silhouetted against the turquoise sky and reflecting in the occasional pool of water. A sense of quiet warmth prevails. For me, the quiet provides a welcome atmosphere for inspiration. Original pastel, framed Image size: 11" x 14" Framed size: 18" x 21" -
Wayfarers Park is right on Flathead Lake located in the town of Bigfork, Montana. A wonderful place to camp right on the water during the season. A perfect view of the ever changing light on Flathead Lake. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 9" Framed size: 19" x 16" 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. -
This view is an embellished scene of the rich farmland in the Creston area with the Swan Range behind. This was near the corner of Hwys 209 and 35. It’s wonderful that we can still enjoy these undeveloped and pastoral views in our beautiful valley. Original pastel painting Image size: 24” x 48" Framed size: 27" x 51" 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. -
Driving back to our cabin after a day of plein air in Glacier National Park, we were heading out of St. Mary’s when this approaching storm came over the mountains. It was so dramatic that I asked my friend to pull over and let me take some photos. I stepped out of the car and was almost blown over by the wind. I crouched down to get the swaying grasses in the foreground. The wind was whipping and whistling in my ears as I took a few photos and jumped back in the car just as raindrops started to fall. The storm chased us all the way to Duck Lake where we were staying for the night. I painted a small study of this scene the next day while the image was still fresh in my mind. Original pastel Image size: 14.625” x 30” Framed: 21.25" x 42.75"
