As the weather turns mild, I felt drawn to step outside and return to one of my favorite painting traditions—plein-air. Recently, I visited a quaint park along a street called Lover’s Lane, known for its enchanting magnolia trees. This park is a peaceful space, often filled with the laughter of children, and is home to a variety of unique, well-labeled trees. Though the magnolias weren’t in their full glory as I’ve seen in past seasons, they still radiated a quiet beauty.
The particular magnolia I painted captivated me with its elegant branches and soft, scattered petals. Despite the tree’s age, its delicate blossoms seemed to float in the air, adding a sense of movement and grace. Beneath the tree, a bed of vibrant yellow daffodils offered a striking contrast, complementing the fallen pink petals like nature’s own textured carpet. Originally, I included a contemporary house visible beyond the fence, but as I worked, the tree’s strong, curving form demanded full attention. In the end, the tree became the sole focus, speaking louder than any backdrop could.
This piece is a reflection of the serene beauty found in these quiet moments—an ode to the magnolia’s fleeting blossoms and the burst of springtime color.
Please contact me at cmartzloffart@gmail.com if you are interested in more information on this artwork or would like to purchase it. Thank you, Catherine
Categories: Flowers, Landscapes, Nature
CATHERINE J MARTZLOFF / Bright and Expressive Original Oil Paintings 
I said out loud, “Oh yay, Spring!” You are capturing the essence of Spring, Cathy, and it moves me so much. LOVED this painting!! Thank you! 🌟🌟🌟
I just love trees. This painting is so simple and beautiful. I’m one of those people who would have stopped and run my hands over the bark of this tree and smelled one of the flowers. Just gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you! I enjoy hearing how you experienced it. It was such a magical setting in so many ways.
I’ve been looking through your paintings. I try to be a little artsy myself sometimes and I have been really drawn in by your paintings.
Do you like to paint?
I never have. I play with beads and fabric and findings. I’m just starting to play with clay. I started to learn to draw with some great YouTube videos and I was doing pretty well. But I got bored. I think I’m very tactile. Do you know what I mean by that? I think that’s why I end up playing with findings and fabric.
Yes I can appreciate that!