Seashells and Summer – 8″ x 10″ Oil on canvas $375
Circling back to summer a little bit, this piece brings in a beachy feel with bright colors, shells, and the zest of citrus. I’m not fully ready to embrace fall yet, even though I’m surrounded by its stunning colors.
Inspiration comes from many places, and this time it all began with the conch shell. A conch always brings me to the ocean. Growing up, we didn’t visit the beach often, but I remember learning to hold a conch shell to my ear to “hear” the sea, and I did! The low hum of waves echoing within the shell became clear blending with the imagined scent of the sea air and the granular feel of sand between my toes. I was transported. So, when my friend brought me this shell as a possible painting subject, I was instantly moved to one of those magical childhood moments.
As with most of my paintings, there’s a hint of time and memory woven in. This shell and its beachside nostalgia felt perfectly matched with a vintage McCoy vase, which I found on a summer trip to Maine years ago. Its simplicity reminded me of the conch’s quiet beauty.
The painting came together using bold brushstrokes and layering vivid, saturated colors as I aimed to evoke the energy of summers warmth. The collected memories found in summer’s bold colors, the warmth of cherished objects, and the bright yellows of lemons, near a bowl hinting at surprises. For me, this was the perfect way to savor the last traces of summer as I ease my way into fall’s palette.
Enjoy the slideshow below. Whether you’re looking for a splash of color or a nostalgic reminder of a summer retreat, reach out I’d love to discuss how this might compliment your space. Reach out here to Contact Me.
Categories: New Paintings, Original oil paintings, Still Life
CATHERINE J MARTZLOFF / Bright and Expressive Original Oil Paintings 
Wonderful Catherine😊. I love your style and use of colour👍👏. Kind regards…Jay😊
Thank you Jay! I so appreciate the compliment and hearing that you enjoy the paintings. Catherine