The sunsets over Flathead Lake are often stunning and always unique. I like to call it "sky drama" because it looks like the heavens are putting on a spectacular show just for us.
Original pastel
Image size: 12" x 16"
-
-
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. -
This little piglet was as cute as any animal I’ve seen before. White and pink all over, she was a charmer. I couldn’t wait to capture those glowing orange ears. Original pastel painting Image size: 8” x 8" Framed size: 11” x 11" This painting was showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. -
One of those wonderful plein air days when you pick the right spot and the painting practically paints itself. It started to rain before I could finish so I completed it in the studio. This charming fast moving creek is a little ways up the road past Hungry Horse Dam and still has quite a bit of volume in early summer. Original pastel painting Image size: 12" x 9" 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. -
A group of painters got up early and headed into West Glacier. The day started fairly warm and clear and quickly got cold and inclement. I did a study on site, capturing the nuances of light and color on the mountain and in the reflections in the stream. I painted this larger piece in the studio using the study as my guide. McDonald Creek looking south in Glacier National Park.
Original pastel
Image size: 16" x 20" -
This painting was started onsite in early September 2021. The smoke from the distant wildfires turned the sky an ethereal orange in the evening light. This view was looking west from the East Glacier area. Original pastel Image size: 9" x 12" Framed size: 16" x 19" This painting is showing at Hockaday Art Museum (Kalispell, Montana) at "A Timeless Legacy" Exhibit. Please contact the museum at 406-755-5268 to purchase. For more information or to purchase, you may contact the museum at 406-755-5268. Alternatively, please contact me or purchase here on my site and I will reimburse the museum for their commission. The painting will be available after the August 30 Opening. -
Beargrass is unique to the Pacific Northwest and nowhere are they more abundant and lovely than in Glacier National Park. The plants bloom in June and only once every seven years. Luckily there is such a proliferation of plants that every year one can enjoy the blooms. Original pastel painting Image size: 11" x 14" Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
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. -
There is nothing more glorious than a warm clear day in Glacier National Park! Grinnell Point, with its distinctive pyramidal shape, looms over Swiftcurrent Lake and provides habitat for wild creatures and tourists alike! Named for George Bird Grinnell, naturalist, writer, and early proponent of protecting the magnificent stretch of the Rocky Mountains now known as Glacier National Park. It was previously known as "Stark Peak," a very fitting and descriptive name for this Many Glacier landmark.
This view was done from a study on site. It was a beautiful morning and I found a fairly secluded spot to set up my easel.
Original pastel Image size: 15" x 20"
-
One of my favorite trails in Glacier National Park is the Iceberg Lake Trail. Hiking through beautiful landscapes of open mountain views and shaded forests, the final approach to the cirque is one of dotted lakes and lush meadows. If you’re lucky you may get a glimpse of grizzlies, from a safe distance. In the bowl of the cirque, Iceberg Lake is aptly named as it always has icebergs floating in it even at the height of summer. This is the view of the towering cirque just a short distance before Iceberg Lake. Original pastel painting Image size: 20” x 15” Please contact me if you're interested. Available framed for $1,400.00 or unframed for $1,250.00. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. This painting was part of the Hockaday Art Museum's "A Timeless Legacy" Exhibit. -
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" -
Limes are a cheerful addition to this southwest enamel bowl and are just waiting to be juiced! Framed in a gallery-quality dark brown wood frame and anti-reflective glass. Original pastel painting Image size: 9” x 12" Framed size: 16" x 19" 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. -
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
-
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 -
Matilda is what I named this little beauty. I was at a farm in Flathead's lower valley picking up fresh produce when I saw the field of goats and pulled out my iPhone to take photos. My new friend spied me from across the field and trotted over to introduce herself. I fell in love. Original pastel painting Image size: 8” x 8" Framed size: 11" x 11" 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. -
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" -
I was up early at a friend’s farm in west Kalispell, when her horses came thundering past for their early morning run to the barn to get their grain. It was exhilarating for both the horses and me! Original pastel painting Image size: 11.75” x 36" Framed size: 14.75" x 39" This painting was showing at FoR Fine Art Gallery in Whitefish, Montana. "Explorations" is the title of my solo show as featured artist in June 2024. -
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. -
Time moves on and the seasons change from lush green to vibrant yellow. It is the last symphony of color before winter closes in and the colors rest in preparation for Spring's leafy explosion. This scene was inspired on an October day, painting at Cascadilla Creek in Glacier National Park. Original pastel painting Image size: 20" x 15" Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
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" -
Bird of Paradise flowers are stunning with a rainbow of colors that are accented by raindrops. Framed in a gallery-quality dark brown wood frame and anti-reflective glass. Original pastel painting Image size: 12” x 16" Framed size: 19" x 23" 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 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. -
Pears! These beautiful Red Crimsons were happy to pose for me. I threw in the green Bosc for variety and a touch of humor. It's very interesting to paint the different varieties of pears—I'm learning their unique characteristics. If you've never had a Red Crimson, give it a try—very sweet. Cultivated during the 1950-1960s from a spontaneous mutation, it's becoming more widely known. Original pastel painting Image size: 12” x 24" Framed size: 19" x 31" Beautifully framed in a rich gold leaf on wood Please contact me if you're interested. Available framed for $1,400.00 or unframed for $1,250.00. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
Pears are a sensuous fruit and wonderfully sweet. These D'Anjou pears are voluptuous with short necks and subtle shades of red blush over their verdant skin. The big treat after painting a still life is enjoying the fruit afterwards. Original pastel Image size: 12” x 24" Framed size: 19" x 31" -
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. -
These small ornament paintings have been described as a delightful addition to holiday decorations. Pick up one for yourself and a loved one! Original pastel Image size: 8" x 6" This piece is sold UNFRAMED. Free shipping to locations in the continental U.S. -
The second in the series, Rock ’n’ Flow. Not only is there visual excitement in the patterns of light and shadow but one hears an ancient narrative in the musical notes of water as it flows over and around the rocks. Original pastel 18" x 24" -
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" -
The fourth in the series, Rock ’n’ Flow. Plunging over the rocks creates an exciting dynamic once again between the immovable and the timeless flow. Original pastel painting Image size: 18" x 24" Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable. -
The first in a series of four titled Rock 'n' Flow. The contrast of unyielding rock and flowing water inspired these paintings. The light falling in abstract patterns creates an interesting kaleidoscope of color. Original pastel painting Image size: 18" x 24"Please contact me if you're interested. Shipping charges may apply. Sales tax is not applicable.
-
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. -
These roosters can be quite intimidating and this guy was a robust specimen with his stunning cockscomb. He was not shy in strutting his stuff around and I made sure to stay out of his pen. Original pastel painting Image size: 8” x 8" Framed size: 11” x 11" 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. -
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. -
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" -
I have a good friend in Somers, an amazing photographer, Kelly Nelson, and every now and again I get a beautiful image from her which I interpret in my own way. This is a view looking east from Somers Bay toward Bigfork. Original pastel Image size: 10" x 20" -
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” -
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"
