The Countess Rimsky- Korsakova

The Countess Rimsky Korsakova after Winterhalter
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Here is my most recent street painting from The Festival of the Arts in La Jolla. I was one of several Madonnara who participated in “Calle Color” a special street painting exhibit in this annual art festival.


This piece is the Countess Rimsky- Korsakova after Franz Xavier Winterhalter (1805—73). Final size was 12’x 12’.

Circles at Work (Studio Painting)

Circles at Work
Originally uploaded by elle3b

So now I worked on this piece with a more finished painting in mind.
Trying to be more refined, but not loosing a fresh appearance. This is a hard line to walk and I may have gone too far. I have to look at it for a while to finally decide if it was successful or not.

16" x 20" Oil on Canvas

Young Flower

Young Flower
Originally uploaded by elle3b

After street painting and working from recreating masterpieces, I often wonder how they affect my work. What influence, if any is present.

So many hours are spent studying how the masters approached drawing, composition, values, edges, color, their ideas seep into the subconscious.

I am certain that practicing drawing and training the mind and eye for so many hours has to make some kind of difference, at least I hope so.

11" x 14" Oil on Canvas

Return of the Prodigal Child

Return of the Prodigal Child
Originally uploaded by elle3b

7' x 7' Street painting
after Lionello Spada- Italian 1576

I'Madonnari Street painting festival in Santa Barbara, CA

This piece had a very intense effect on me while painting it over the 3 days in Santa Barbara. Hard to explain exactly, but sometimes you can go so deeply into a piece that the experience transcends the here and now. You are transported into another world. For me it was a world of memories. Thinking about my father and my brother and though they have both passed on, I wonder if there was ever any reconciliation between them. My brother was the prodigal son in many ways. I felt so profoundly as I painted the young boys face, I think that my emotions came through in it's rendering. My heart was opened by this subject matter in a very intense way.

The Time for the Lilacs

The Time for the Lilacs
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I have been busy street painting and finishing up my spring semester of classes. Sorry I have not posted in a while.

8' x 10' street painting
after Sophia Andersen

2nd annual Burns Court Chalk Festival in Sarasota, Florida, the 'Avenida de Colores'

Loner (Transformed)

Loner
Originally uploaded by elle3b

To those of who loved this painting previously, my apologies. I made the selfish decision to keep going with this painting... going and going until every little bit was as I wanted.

Loner became a temporary obsession which compelled me to continue. I wanted more out of this piece. Loner held a special connection for me at this time when the hours for actual painting has been severely reduced. Circumstances beyond my control have consumed my world.

I reveled in every moment spent on this piece. I did not want it to end.
I found this painting to be my safe haven, a place to come back to, revisit, peruse with choice and discrimination. Even now I cannot stop looking at her. I feel I found something more in this one. A delicacy,
a slowing down of time where I took as long as I needed to get to where I wanted to go and ended up with exactly what I wanted to see.

Thank God. I want more, and soon.

14" x 18" Oil on Canvas

Lost in Thought

Lost in Thought
Originally uploaded by elle3b

You wonder what might be going through this young woman's mind as she sits quietly in contemplation. You come upon her as she is lost in thought.

12" x 16" Oil on Panel

Meadow Glow- Lyons Canyon Ranch

Meadow Glow- Lyons Canyon Ranch
Originally uploaded by elle3b

It amazes me that after living in this town for 28 years there are still many new places to explore. This was a place I must have passed a million times and never noticed before. My friend Laura Introduced me to the place and how lovely it is. We plan to go back there for furthur exploration and painting delight.

Sorry about the bugs in the paint, but I left them there intentionally this time. Thought it added to the realism of the moment.

8" x 10" Plein Air Study

Circles at Work

Circles at Work
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This is an oil painting study which I hope to use to create a larger studio painting.

The scene came from Placerita Canyon during a day hike with my husband and my dog. When I saw this formation in the trees I stopped dead in my tracks. It is amazing what is out there, a feast for our eyes if we only learn to see. Like music found in the arbitrary sounds of the day, I see magic in nature.

9" x 12" Study in Oils

Loner

Loner
Originally uploaded by elle3b

These days I am painting less frequently so, when I do get to paint I am savoring it even more. TIme and space to be alone to work is on my mind. That is perhaps why I chose to call this painting "Loner". Free from everything in the world just me and this tree figuring out how to paint together.

14" x 18" Oil Painting

Tesoro Adobe

Tesoro Adobe
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Tesoro Adobe Historic Park
A beautiful and quiet setting for plein air painting today.
The sounds of hummingbirds buzzing by and the crock of a frog is about all I heard while painting. It was a very lovely spot and I plan on going back soon.

This piece is now part of the private collection of Harry (Dobe) Carey Jr. who was born on this historical site or very near by. Our city recently honored him at the Tesoro Adobe and my painting was donated to him in honor of his family and their contributions. A lovely honor and a very warm gentlemen and family.




8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting

Delicate Limbs

Delicate Limbs
Originally uploaded by elle3b

8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting

Sun Struck

Sun Struck
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Some paintings are a fight. You can paint them a thousand times and still never work it out. Like a dog on a bone, you refuse to give it up until you finally get to a point of enough is enough.
Well here it is... a battle complete.

Funny how such a pretty picture can create a wrestling match. It's o.k. though I love the struggle as much as the success... it is all part of the game.

14" x 18" Oil on Canvas

The Dancer's Gaze

The Dancer's Gaze
Originally uploaded by elle3b

No matter where I paint I find a zone to settle into.
This time I painted this lovely dancer. Her gaze intent. Her posture held in
perfect stance. A wonderful subject. I feel I caught a sense of intensity
from either her or myself or both. What a delight it is to paint the human form. I never tire of the act, it only draws me further.

14" x 18" Oil on Canvs

Vineyard and the Climbing Rose

Vineyard and the Climbing Rose
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Los Olivos. California has a wonderful wine country. Here is a scene
taken from one of the wineries on a porch where a climbing rose was
fully in bloom. The light was beautiful and the day swept us away.
We found serenity being with our friends in this beautiful setting.

18" x 24" Oil on Canvas

Odalisque

Odalisque
Originally uploaded by elle3b

The elegant gesture of this young reclining girl, relaxed, contemplative. The perfect posture for a cold Winter's day.

9" x 12" Life Study in Oils

Red Rose Still Life

Red Rose Still Life
Originally uploaded by elle3b

The other day our model cancelled at the last minute, so we decided to
paint a still life. I do not typically do flowers so it was a good
change.

As I painted I realized once again the importance of simplification and values. The concepts I have learned translated so well to this subject. It was interesting applying that knowledge to a different form and seeing the result.

12" x 16" Still Life Study

Newhall Chill

Newhall Chill
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Viewing a video by Richard Schmid painting int he snow inspired me to
paint outside even when the weather was overcast and chilly. If he can
go out there and create beautiful paintings in those conditions I certainly have no excuse.

The subtle colors where there, but so were the darks. Though my time was limited I thoroughly enjoyed painting this little landscape.

5" x 7" Plein Air Study

King Gillette Ranch

King Gillette Ranch
Originally uploaded by elle3b

California Art Club held it's quarterly paint out at this
beautiful property in Malibu. There were many sights to choose from naturally, but this won my favor.

8" x 10" Plein Air Study

Tin Roof in the Sunlight

Tin Roof in the Sunlight
Originally uploaded by elle3b

My last day to paint up in the Sequoias. I wandered around looking for an interesting subject to paint and saw this little tin roofed shed sitting in a grove of pine trees. All the brilliant light catching the tips of the brush nearby.

I know I have farther to go with my paintings, trying to catch the light and get it all down just right, but I do enjoy painting outside. I want to relish the places I go, not just mechanically depict them. The reach is tough, but the journey is good.

8" x 10" Plein Air Study

Liquid Joy

Liquid Joy
Originally uploaded by elle3b

On the shoreline of a little pond in the Sequoias I found pure pleasure simply moving this wonderful medium around. Watching it move and slither under my knife. I felt I got that feeling of fluidity in the water along with all the brilliant reflections.

It was a good day.

8" x 10" Plein AIr Study in Oils

True Colors

True Colors
Originally uploaded by elle3b

The Sequoias were beautiful and I was
wide eyed and filled with anticipation by being somewhere new.

I had had this conversation with one of my students about truth in art.
How one can receive sensation by looking at a painting. That sometimes we can go with the beauty and truth that is before us. We need not always look to improve upon what is already perfect in its natural state.

Here I laid down my paint in awe of what was before me. In truth and simplicity.

8" x 10" Plein Air Study

Morning Oak

Morning Oak
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Beautiful Monday Morning Oak in Santa Clarita

Fields of golden grasses, yellow flowers and
these striking bold beauties with their rich dark greens. Glorious strength in nature's arrangements.

8" x 10" Plein Air Painting in Oils

Alex Profile

Alex Profile
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This oil sketch was completed in about an hour.
I was trying to capture the values and structure of this young woman's face, while thinking of all the approaches I learned in the Leffel workshop.
Practice, Practice, Practice, that is what I must continue to do. I do feel I am getting better.

11" x 14" Life Study in Oils

Head Study - David Leffel's Workshop

Head Study Leffel's Workshop
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I have been away for a while on several excursions and have gotten away from blogging my newest works.

A few weeks ago I attended a David Leffel workshop. It had a tremendous affect on me. His philosophy, his techniques it all simply blew me away.I worked amounst some of the best painters I have seen. It was extraordinary and I feel somewhat changed by the experience.

Here is my one success in the class, a head study that was completed so quickly and freshly, I could hardly believe it was complete. It all came together in little more than an hour. Simplicity, deliberate application, a knowing. Like making the perfect swing.

I wish I could hold on to that moment, repeat the perfection of all things coming together with ease and certainty. I guess the more you do, the odds are the more that can happen.

I think it was the best learning experience I have had thus far.

11" x 14" Oil on Panel

Alex

Alex
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I feel this pose has a more interesting angle and portrays more inner
substance of the person I am painting.

We learn from teachers and we learn from our own experiences. I also realize that some days you have it and some days you don't. Occasionally I have found that breaking from the routine into another medium or activity refreshes my outlook.

I will be studying with David Leffel next week, so my hope is to improve my portraits. Create more drama and humanity within the subject I have loved all along.

9" x 12" Life Study in Oils

Head Study- Young Girl

Tawny Eyes 2
Originally uploaded by elle3b

11" x 14" Life Study in Oils

Sunday at Buster's

Sunday at Buster's
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting of Buster's Coffee and Ice cream Shop was done for the special California Art Club juried exhibition, "RIalto Visions - Icons and Landmarks of South Pasadena".

The painting wil be on display at the Collectors' Preview reception on October 21, 7-9:30 pm at the South Pasadena Public Library Community Room.

For Information call the California Art Club 626 593-9009

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Woman with a Veil

Woman with a Veil
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This post may take a little explaining.

Yes it is a daily painting, or rather a painting I did in one day. This is a street painting 6' x 4' in size. It is a temporary art form that I have been involved with over the last 10 years (see my website www.lorellemiller.com under streetpainting).

This image is a reproduction of Alexandar Roslin's piece named"Woman with a Veil" Sweden, 1768.

Every time I produce one of these wonderful masterworks I learn a great deal and the practice I get with my drawing skills as well as in painting is tremendous. My interest in portraiture has usually been with the feminine image. I loved the coquettish look of this young woman as she poised for her husband.

4' x 6' Pastel Street Painting

Rural Diggs

Rural Diggs
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Some areas around our valley have this old time feel.
Like things have not changed much. In truth just up the road you may find a huge mansion-like house. There is a comfort in knowing
that these little parcels of land survive. The project, "Chasing Open Spaces" brings me to these sites in appreciation of their fragile existence.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Stunning Beauty

Stunning Beauty
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Chasing Open Spaces is an exhibit that has opened my eyes to extraordinary scenes of our natural landscapes in and around the Santa Clarita Valley.

When I first moved up here 28 years ago I saw how pretty the rolling golden hills were, yet through my art and painting do I ultimately realize how intensely beautiful it is.

This scene took my breath away, so untouched and vast. God how beautiful I thought how amazing it would be to paint this.

I even tried an entirely new earth palette. The colors I came up with using only black, white, brunt sienna and yellow orche was amazing. The whole process from first sight to finished piece was amazing.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Up at the Water Tower

Up at the Water Tower
Originally uploaded by elle3b

One summer afternoon I went searching for
some nice views for the "Chasing Open Spaces" exhibit.

I saw this view "Up at the Water Tower" and it just seems so natural for this area. These water towers dot our hill sides here and there. I think they just melt into what we are used to seeing. In this painting the water tower has a little different significance, it is a point from which we can see everything.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

TImeless Terrain

TImeless Terrain
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Hot summer afternoon in Santa Clarita.
The colors buzz brilliantly in the high desert.
I found this scene to be timeless, a place that has probably not changed much over the years.

Glad to be back posting my work. Several new paintings are coming up along with my upcoming exhibit, "Chasing Open Spaces III"

18" x 24" Oil Painting.

Marina

Marina
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting was done as a 6 hour life study . This young woman has all the visual qualities of a top model. To represent her beauty was challenging. I felt like it was impossible to truly capture her exquisite features.

As you get to know the models a little more, it is so interesting to hear their tales. They are viewed as perfect specimens. Peoples reactions to them and how they are reacting to this attention.

It was a fascinating encounter and though I did not do her beauty justice here, I was pleased to have the opportunity to appreciate and paint Marina.

12" x 16" Head Study in Oils

Portrait of Maeve

Portrait of Maeve
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting was a donation towards the Santa Clarita Artist's Association Silent Auction.

I offered a small painting commission which was bought by one of my students. This is a portrait of her granddaughter Maeve. She is just now 10 years old, on the cusp of becoming a young woman.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Lisa Head Study

Lisa Head Study
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A week ago or so I painted this model from life.
A lot has happened to my personal life since then and looking back
I realize how lucky I am to have had the liberty for so many years of enjoying and even struggling with the painting process.

Things are changing and I am distracted from my normal course.

To make art, to find it's purest gifts you should have a clear and receptive mind. Right now that is very difficult. The distractions and uncertainties are filling me, taking me away. I must find the inner strength to reach harder towards art, the more life tries to push me away from it.

Tonight with a quiet prayer almost like my model here, I pray for
right action and a sense of inner calm. To know I am in the right place at the right time for life to be lived to it's fullest.

11" x 14" Head Study in Oils

Pico Canyon Foothills at Dusk

Pico Canyon at Dusk
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A another beautiful late afternoon.
The foothills glow as the sun makes it's
decent.

The region is full of extraordinary
subject matter for paintings.

I happily worked on this plein air painting until the light was gone.

9" x 12" Plein Air Painting

Connection

Connection
Originally uploaded by elle3b

How do you see yourself in another person,
you sense a memory, a glance, something that recalls your distant past.

You connect.

Somehow I found myself missing the young woman that I was. I believe I found her as I painted this model today.

Perplexing yet understandable

11" x 14" Life Study in Oils

Canyon Country Duet

Canyon Country Duet
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This duet was realized on a
winter's day when the light broke through the clouds
and illuminated these beautiful trees. I was lucky enough to be there to capture the moment with my camera and then translate it into
a painting.

Each oil painting is 12" x 16"

The Arbor View

The Arbor View
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Afternoon strolls provide
a chance to choose among the
plentiful views along our paseos.

8" x 10" Plein AIr Oil Painting

Summer Hill

Summer Hill
Originally uploaded by elle3b

After being in the studio doing life studies lately
with a consistent light source, this sudden
jump to plein air painting was a real wake up call.

The light was moving so fast I had to speed up my momentum and
quicken my decision making. It was like a ride.

I look forward to getting out there more often as I prepare for upcoming exhibit called "Chasing Open Spaces". This will be our third year producing this exhibit which features the beautiful landscape in and around the Santa Clarita Valley.

From the Human form to landscape painting, the surprises always keep you hopping! What a wonderful experience it is to be creating
art and enjoying all these wondrous views.

8" x 10" Plein Air Study in Oils

Head Study of Andrew

Head Study of Andrew
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Taking from the human form set before you as a painter,
is an awesome task and a privilege. You are breathing life into a flattened surface, creating the illusion of space and time through the human flesh. Nuances of light and shadow mingle together and you make your choices.

Adventure of the moment is found in the vision sitting before you.
All of humanity appears in each face I paint no matter the age, no matter who it is. I seek to see deeply, drawing in the experience of painting the living soul.

11" x 14" Life Study in Oil

Powder

Powder
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A Dedication

This painting was done as a memorial to a special
cat named Powder. Her owner was broken hearted at the time of her passing. I have done this little painting to help bring a smile in remembrance of her very special little friend.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Auburn Tales

Auburn Tales
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Once I tuned into this model, studying her face
and understanding the fall of her hair I realized
this very romantic image. One that reminds me of
the lovely model who posed for Waterhouse with her mane of auburn hair.

11" x 14" Life Study in Oils

Appearances

Apprearances
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Creating a mood, writing a story beyond
laying down pigment.

Here a mystery has evolved as
one considers appearances.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Burgandy Twist

Burgandy Twist
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Seeking to capture the spirit of this young woman I find her
strength mingles with concern. The journey we take
in life records in our eyes and speak through the slightest twist or gesture.

12" x 16" Life Study in Oil

Gentle Slopes

Gentle Slopes
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Finding emotion in your work. Relating the experience of the day as I stood alone overlooking this gentle slope. As I paint I find my way back to the scene which filled senses and caused me to pause at it's beauty.

12" X 24" Oil Painting

Girl in a Green Chair

Girl in a Green Chair
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Sometimes you start out with a plan and direction for your painting
and some influence occurs that can change your whole approach.
My direction shifted course this afternoon when my attitude became
freer, lighter, almost giving into the present moment and not trying
so hard.

Over the next 3 days I will be in an intense figure and portrait painting workshop, so I decided to relax a little and just enjoy painting. Perhaps the casual gesture and easy brushwork came through.

14" x 18" Figure Study from Live Model

Tawney Eyes

Tawney Eyes
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Today I painted from life . I hope to do this on a more regular basis
as I find my way back to the figure and my love of human expression.
This young woman had a certain emptiness in her eyes. I will be working
from this model again in the near future. It will be interesting to see how
my paintings change and grow with this new added opportunity.

11" x 14" Life Study in Oils

Nature Walk

Nature Walk
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This adventuresome little trio was
taking in the sites and sounds of the nearby
nature preserve. It is wonderful to see children appreciating
the natural world. Here in the fresh air where they can run
and just be kids.

5" x 5" Oil Painting

Tall Visions

Tall Visions
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I came across this vision of eucalyptus against brilliant morning light one day when I was out plein air painting. I have been anticipating the opportunity to finally paint all the color and light that came streaming through this grand old grove of trees.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Afternoon on the Veranda

Afternoon on the Veranda
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting was a color study done in 1 hour on site at Rancho Camulos with a live model. I was very happy to find someone willing to sit for me while I worked.

With such a time limit you work decisively. I hope to do a larger studio painting from this quick sketch. I like the fresh feeling that came across here, but I do see areas I hope to improve upon when I do the final piece.

9" x 12" Plein Air Study

Canyon Country Crest

Canyon Country Crest
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Today's Plein Air Painting was done at our new Community College Campus in Canyon Country. Often the challenge is to find something in an ordinary scene that you can embrace.

The scene provided the structure and design, while the process lead me to these incredible color choices and finally the pleasant harmony of all things working together. There were moments of struggle and concern, but in the end I feel I brought it together. It was a good day.

9" x 12" Plein Air Painting

Sweet Colors of Overcast

Sweet Colors of Overcast
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Today I plein air painted at Eaton Canyon. I wondered how everything would work out with the overcast sky. The blanket of soft grays brought a subtle richness to the color in the mountains. The soft bank of clouds touching the peaks. Occasionally the color would intensify when the sun would sneak out for a moment.

The experience felt fresh, revitalizing.

12" x 16" Plein Air Oil Painting

Lasting Effects

Lasting Effects
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Lasting Effects reveals a journey of loss.

That journey began when I was young girl with the loss of my father, then many years later the loss of my brother David, and more recently the passing away of my mom on Christmas Eve.

Something inside me sought to bare my wounds and express this sadness that is part of my very fabric. I do this in an effort to move on, beyond those wounds. Only by looking at my grief squarely in the face can I get beyond it.

Loss is part of our life, whether it be great disappointment or the honest after effects of death itself. I have found strength in my endurance. Not to become a hollow shell, unfeeling, but to admit the sadness while reaching forward and living fully.

Though this piece has taken many years to complete, I am glad it is over with. I feel a sense of completion here, like the end of a sad tale. Though the road will wind by other difficult passages, I will hold on and move through it as I had done when I was a young girl holding on desperately to the only comfort I could find.

30" x 41" Pastel

Hillside Color

Hillside Color
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting is an experiment with a new palette and a differing approach. Usually I try to plan my paintings out pretty well. This one I let lead the way. A bit frustrating to shift like this, but I just wanted to try something different. An approach which drifts a little towards the abstract
letting the painting give direction. The lovely color of the hillside was right out my window but I moved with the color and design I found in nature to come up with this final composition.

8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting

Ridges of Light- Malibu Creek State Park

Ridges of Light- Malibu Creek State Park
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Walking along the trail at Malibu State Park you can see amazing scenes at every turn. This view in particular stopped me in my tracks. I was so struck by this vision, it held my gaze until I got to just the right place to record it. After one study in plein air, I decided to continue with a studio painting. When I look at this piece it still holds my gaze as if looking upon it for the very first time, entranced by the ridges of pure light and color.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Three Sisters

Three Sisters
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Today I set out to go plein air painting and almost let myself get pulled away by the issues of the day. Instead of giving up I pushed on until I regrouped and made the decision to go to a familiar place that has never disappointed me. Placerita Nature Center is being remodeled, but even with so much in disarray, I could hear all the sounds of nature, the red-tail hawk, the wind, the children playing in the stream. All the while I am deep in my own world trying my hardest to get this picture right.

Sometimes the struggles lend the best rewards.

Afterwards while sitting on the ledge of my old blue Aerostar having my lunch, I felt a release from all the pressures, all the expectations. I hid away in my own town beneath the trees and left the world carry on without me.

9" x 12" Plein Air Oil Painting

Morning Triumph

Morning Triumph
Originally uploaded by elle3b

After not Plein Air Painting for several weeks this really felt like a true work out. I felt a complete sense of release by the end of painting as though I had really been through something. Like exercising after sitting around too long. What a relief.

9" x 12" Plein Air Oil Painting

The Red Shawl

The Red Shawl
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Painting this young woman from life was a wonderful experience.
When you are working from a living breathing human being, your interaction with the painting itself seems to be heightened.
Here we have Densie and the Red Shawl.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Whisper in Paradise

Whisper in Paradise
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Sometimes you go to a place and simply soak up the quiet.
The stillness, the coolness of the air, all the harmony of the day present for you in that moment. Like a dream that you wish would never end.
Whisper in Paradise and wish for time to stand still.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

The Beach Towel

The Beach Towel
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This image has been on my mind for sometime now. This seemingly serious boy standing almost at attention, adorned by this brilliantly colored beach towel. It seemed a contrast of effects which caught my eye.

5" x 7" Oil on Panel

Young Thoughts

Young Thoughts
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Climbing out on to the outer most rocks near Burney Falls, my son sits
watching the turbulent water pass around his rocky perch. Alone with his thoughts and I alone with mine. I notice how this young man has grown. I look out as he sits there hoping for his safety. I let him explore and take in the rapids surrounding him. The time has come to let go a little more. It is what a mother must do, as my child moves towards becoming a man.

River in the Deep Woods

River in the Deep Woods
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Mixing reality and fantasy I wander through the forest with my paint and palette knife. A sense of mystery is what I felt while walking here.

How do you paint a feeling? A question we often face, yet here on this canvas I returned to the feeling of this place. The rich mystery found in the deep wood.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Shoreline View (Big Bear)

Shoreline View (Big Bear)
Originally uploaded by elle3b

SometimesI think back to a place that struck me with its
momentary perfection. This was one of those places.
I brought even more of my desire and fantasy about this scene into the painting as I worked on it. A place I revisit in my mind's eye whenever the
the calling strikes me.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Boulder Bound

Boulder Bound
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Sun baked boulders piled high.
I can feel the warmth emanating from the rough surface of these giant rocks. I can feel my foot searching for the next foot hold. How I love rocks, touching them, leaning upon them and clinging like a child to its mother.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Reading for Pleasure

Reading for Pleasure
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I was on my way home one day and happened by this
scene in my neighborhood. It seemed so nice to see this young boy reading and relaxing with his grandmother. I think moments like these
are so rare. A certain feeling of comfort found in family. She probably read to him as a very little boy.

8" x 10" Oil Painting

Kaleidoscope of Color

Kaleidoscope of Color
Originally uploaded by elle3b

An example of how beautiful our Earth can be. After the holidays
I found Peace on Earth on this little piece of canvas. A place of focus, richness and ease.
5" x 7" Oil Painting

Boulder Bay Cottage

Boulder Bay Cottage
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I have worked on this painting for a few weeks now, enjoying the feeling of this place . The cool feel of the rocks, the misty air and vision of a cabin set by itself among the boulders. Hearing the gently lapping of the water against the shore's edge. I could escape to this place everyday in my mind. A place to hideaway and simply be.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

The Arrangement

The Arrangement
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A profile captured during a wedding ceremony.
The contemplative inward gesture of a bride's maid.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Crowning Glory

Crowning Glory
Originally uploaded by elle3b

The Brilliance of Autumn's colors abound
on this crislp December morning. Iluminated golden leaves
sing out into the subtle fields of tawny grasses.

8" x 10" Plien Air Oil Painting

Plein Gold

Plein Gold
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This one was sort of a quicky!
Simple, bold, direct, maybe to a fault, but the colors where like a kaleidoscope or a mozaic. Very Fun.

8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting


By the way I will be in two upcoming exhibits. Please go to my website at www.lorellemiller.com under exhibits for details.

Happy Holidays!!

Shoreline Huts of Big Bear

Shoreline Huts of Big Bear
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Along the shoreline of Big Bear Lake were these colorful little cottages. I kept thinking of the song "Love Shack". They were so charming, I could see myself sitting on the edge of the shore with my feet in the water.

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Watchful Eyes and Butterflies

Watchful Eyes and Butterflies
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Here amongst the deep green garden in the house of butterflies, a delicate beauty keeps a watchful eye. I catch a glance that I cannot forget.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Corriganville

Corriganville
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Be free
be spontaneous
settle down
focus
forgotton brushes
did it anyway
Viva paper towels
eyeshadow brush
floundering
focusing
remembering
finsihing

How many things can go into an small 8 x 10

This was today's plein air attempt

I need to get out more.

And if honestly is what you are looking for here it is.

Malibu Creek

Malibu Creek
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting is from Malibu State Park about a year ago or so.
Over the last couple of years I have been studying
compositional design and landscape painting.

It has been a real learning curve for me as
I usually paint from an emotional base rather than
a technical one. I hope to bring these two schools of thought together.
As I continue my studies with my teacher she reassures me that the emotion is still present in the work, but I should continue to concentrate on these devices to make my paintings even more appealing.

It is so hard but I will continue. I want to grow, as most artists do. Patience is also a big part of this process. I did enjoy figuring this puppy out.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Utah Mesa

Utah Mesa
Originally uploaded by elle3b

On my way to Colorado for a sculpture symposium I stopped to take a look at this magnificent vista. It was early morning and I felt as though I was experiencing a dream. Someplace beyond the everyday, a little closer to God.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Malibu Creek

Malibu Creek
Originally uploaded by elle3b

An afternoon some time ago. It is interesting to reach back in your mind and remember the sensations of the day. It was a very beautiful afternoon as you can see.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Twilight Practice

Twilight Practice
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This was just for fun. The city is having an
art contest. The theme is the 20th anniversary of
Santa Clarita. Here is Santa Clarita at it's
best. Beautiful sunset, familys watching
kids play football, perfect weather, what
more could you ask for. It all seemed to come
together when I saw this twight practice at
Central Park.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Blue Range

Blue Range
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Far off in the distance was this little scene.
It was almost unoticable. I tuned into its beauty
and captured it. This tiny scene brought
into our view through an artists eye.

8" x 10" Oil Painting

Val Verde Barn

Val Verde Barn
Originally uploaded by elle3b

I painted this scene about a year or so ago as a
plein air painting. Here I have recreated the
scene as a more finished studio painting.
It seems to have a completely different feel to it.
There is a serenity this time, where before
I was on site in the wild and quite concerned about
an approaching coyote. It was interesting to compare the two paintings

16" x20" Oil Painting

Gathered Greens All a Glow

Gathered Greens All a Glow
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A grouping of Trees I found in the
Wine Country of Southern California.
The light illuminated them so beautifully. I feel very satisfied
with this little painting. To me I feel I caught the colors
and the spirit of the moment.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Distant Gold

Distant Gold
Originally uploaded by elle3b

A new teacher adds influence here. I am reaching
to elevate and furthur my understanding of
design. I am committing myself to this effort
as I want to get better at what I do. I see a definite
difference in this painting.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Fountain Shadows

Fountain Shadows
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Quick, direct painting. Not allowing much time to
linger and wonder about decisions. That was the
tempo of this painting.

It is a garden in Redding California which
was very quiet, no one around.

9" x 12" Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting

Above the Vines

Above the Vines
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Views and Vistas of the Wine Country in Southern
California. Above the Vines where one can find
gentle breezes and a soothing view.

12" x 24" Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting

Anywhere Country

Anywhere Country
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Taken in by this fresh country scene. Anywhere country
suites me just fine.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Malibu Vista

Malibu Vista
Originally uploaded by elle3b

This painting is one I have been working on with a new teacher.
I am trying to move forward with my painting skills. It is important
to always bring in fresh new information to add to the mix.

I enjoy the feedback and guidance. I also am looking forward to
another workshop in September with Lynn Gertenbach. Hopefully
I will get back to my figure painting as well. I always miss it when I
am away from it too long.

12" x 18" Oil Painting

Street Entrance

Street Entrance
Originally uploaded by elle3b

An early morning plein air painting with a slight European
air. Everything was so quiet, contemplative, but soon the day took off
and the street started coming alive.

Journey

Our journey unclear
A destination debated
Yet we wander thru corridor after corridor
A bit uncertain yet heeding a call to move on.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Display in the Arroyo

I have been to Pasadena so many times, but
had never visited the Arroyo. What an amazing place.
I was so happy to find a new place to explore, so many trails winding through.
Everywhere I turned was a beautiful diplay in the Arroyo.
12" x 16" Oil Painting

The City's Pride

Pasadena's City Hall stands as an icon amoungst the extraordinary historical architecture found throughout the city.
9" x 12" Oil Painting

Search in the Sand

The ache in my heart is so dull sometimes it is almost unpersceptable. As I reach towards real meaning in what I am creating I am striving to connect to something. Something I can relate a feeling to. Here I see a young boy with his grandmother and I think of the young and the old. How this was happening around me with my young son and my mom.

She is gone now and the generations that were able to touch each other are now over and we move on. Yet I am saddened and still pleased that they were able to meet, to touch. Life carries us as we search in the sand. The sweet sadness of times gone by and the renewal as I witness the scene through another family.

The young and the old still reach towards each other as time pushes to separate them.

7" x 15" Palette Knife Oil Painting

Swirling Skylight

Currents stirring shades of blue upon the sky.
Swirling and churning clouds push towards
destinations unknown. The sun descends unimpressed
by the turbulence while the skylights stretch
beyond my view.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Sweeping Wisteria

Sweeping Wisteria
Originally uploaded by elle3b

Sweeping Wisteria in the late afternoon dripping with sweet fragrance and soft shades of lavendar.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Cowboy Hats

Cowboy hats in the sunlight worn by a couple of
cute little kids. How could I resist.

4" x 4" Oil Painting

Pontoons

I was at Big Bear Lake for a couple of days and ran across
some lovely spots of color made by these whimsical pontoons.
They playfully bounced around on the currents that afternoon
while I watched their colors skip and change in the water.

8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting

An Evening Under the Oaks

I was asked by the Santa Clarita Artist's Assoiciation and the Santa Clarita Symphony to be a featured plein air painter at a fundraiser for our local Symphony yesterday.

The event was held at the home of one of our local dignitaries.
Beautiful oaks framed the scene which I painting during the late afternoon.
Then the guests and musicians arrived which I added into the painting once they settled in.

It was an enjoyable experience. I kept thinking of Renoir's paintings of outdoor party scenes. The painting was given as a gift to the most generous
donor of the night.

9" x 12" Plein Air Oil Painting

A Bridge Back

Life will take us in so many different directions.
As I painted today I felt this was my bridge back to where I want to be.
I hold on to my paints and brushes with intensity as I ride the rapids
of life. The white water and the gentle current are all part of this
river. For me the art leans over as a bridge to take me to the next
road I am to travel.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

The Grey Day Windmill

Some days are grey days with subtle colors.
Some paintings are beautiful within their shapes and
and nuances. Though this is from a recent time, the compostion a
and color felt as if it were from many years ago. I felt a connection
to my Grandmother, FLora,who was part Dutch. She too was an artist
and I recently rediscovered a windmill painting she did probably over
85 years ago.

3.75 x 3.75 Pastel Painting

Evening

The evening's light was disappearing fast as I grasped at it's last display.
I believe Van Gogh was taken by the riches of evening colors. I now understand
the fascination. How deep and fleeting these moments are.

5" x 7" Pastel Painting

Muriel's Marina

Today I paint a painting in tribute to a family and a woman who is sailing away towards her love who awaits her in heaven.

He always loved the sea, she wished to be beside him and today they will meet after a long nap had separated their beings.

Today she goes to him, to rest in his arms with forgiveness and joy.

Blessings surround Muriel's Marina, today as she sails towards his embrace.

11" x 14" Oil Painting

Color Balls in Multiple

Originally uploaded by

I have been intrigued with these color balls over the last several months.
This painting is the third one in the series. The brilliant color reflecting on the faces of these beautiful children was irresistible. I felt the need to return to the figure for a while and it has been very satisfying.

7" x 15" Oil Painting

The Big Orange Tractor

The Big Orange Tractor was slowly driving by in the Flower Fields of Carlsbad.
Here I saw simplicity and brilliant color calling.

8" x 10" Oil Painting

3 Color Balls

This painting was an exercise for me. It is not the way I typically paint, as it is much tighter than usual, but sometimes it is good to heighten my sense of observation. I do this with my street painting projects as well to keep up with my drawing skills. I will do this from time to time, but I enjoy a freer form of impressionism to this type of painting. Probably has something to do with my level of patience and concentration. I came to the conclusion that I maybe trying too hard for exactness instead of capturing the essence of the subject.

9" x 10" Oil Painting

Pond Light Slice

Today I was preparing for a project and had to slice a canvas down to a particular size. The left over piece of canvas board was going to the trash bin when I decided to experiment with a trial set of Maimeri Oils paints on it instead.

I found myself painting a small slice of life. My son came home and said he liked the format and thought it looked "cool", so it is a small gift for him.I guess it must be kind of neat to have an artist as a mom.

2" x 9" Oil Painting

Shady Afternoon - Rancho Camulos

It was a perfect afternoon, breeze blowing, perfect temperature, color everywhere.
Some days I think about how different our days can be. They slide on a scale from Heaven to Hell sometimes.
I was fortunate today and happy for the peace and perfection at hand.

8" x 10" Plein Air Painting

Primadonna

Spring scatters opportunity with the wind. Her blossoms take seed, her blubs bear gifts for those of us patient enough to wait.

Here is a glimmering Iris standing solo in the early morning breeze. The word "Primadonna" came up in conversation today and it is a very fitting title for this lovely gem.

8" x 10" Plein Air Painting

A Place to Relax

This is a painting that was done a Descanso Gardens. It was beautiful there, so many flowers in bloom. Tremendously scenic. I look forward to returning soon.

8" x 10" Plien Air painting

Chiffon in the Flower Fields

An artist has to play. That is what today was all about. Experimentation, play, venturing out and doing something exciting and different.

Here was another Carlsbad day where I explored the "Flower Fields". Two little girls all dressed up in chiffon dresses were wandering around and sneaking into the flowers for their mom to take a photo. Well she wasn't the only one ready with a camera.

I had fun with this one just playing with the paint and the palette knife. I was so excited and happy in the process of doing this, it was over far too soon.

Different thoughts travel through your mind while you are working. My mind wandered back to being a little girl myself and being with my best friend Debbie. Somehow these girls were echoes of my past.

8" x 10" Palette Knife Painting - Oils

A Crimson Glow

I have been out of touch for a while. Busy with family stuff and FINALLY made time to paint. If I didn't I was afraid I was going to explode. After a long drought like this I feel as if I am drinking at a cool fountain. I feel a sense of release after so long without painting as if I am being fed.

This image was one I caught at a garden in Carlsbad. I was lucky to catch this sight. I thought the brilliant reds were awesome and the rhythm of all the curves were intriguing. So here we have "A Crimson Glow" and I am so glad to be back at it.

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Pink Pillows on the Sand

These fluffy pink bushes are a happy surprise that are seen only in certain areas of the riverbed. I love to watch as they move in the wind, they look so soft like pink pillows on the sand.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Chance for Pink

The Riverbed displayed a new set of colors this morning. Pink and Turquoise were on parade. The changes from winter to spring are dramatic.

I have heard people say that we do not have seasons here. While other places do have 9' drifts of snow we still have our subtle changes. You just have to look and take notice to watch as the branches go from bare to beautiful in no time at all.

Today, I found was a chance for pink.

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Daffodil

This is a painting I did for a friend a while back. She always reminded me of good deeds, like "Daffodil Days". Someone who always put others before herself. Someone I have learned from.

5" X 5" Oil Painting

Amber Crowns

The "Amber Crowns" I saw today were mainly due to the winter freeze that happened recently. Still the colors sang out. Nature's designs and harmonies called for me to paint them, I was happy to oblige.

8" x 10" Plein Air Painting

Earth Curves

5" x 7" Oil Painting

A Sunday Drive

So many succulent colors on display for me this Sunday Morning.
These many of these views appear in the most obscure locations. This one was off the old behind an old building. I kept looking and looking then as if by magic the view comes into focus and voila, there is my painting. I envision it before it even comes close to the canvas.

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Spring Ahead

Spring is in the air today as the weather is warming up. The trees are beginning to green up and blossom. It is so good to see the new growth, the renewal.
The plein air experience always provides a cleaner sense of color. I was challenged today to stay in control, I always seem to get in this run away mode (over stimulated) when I plein air paint. I am working on settling down and getting into that zone feeling. I think this will come more easily as I go out more often.

8" x 10" Plein Air Painting

Hidden Riches

What was so amazing to me about this subject was the fact that it was something you could very easily have passed by without a glance. I found this beautiful group of trees off the side of the Old Road near Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita.

Unfortunately there was a lot of trash on the ground and it was not a particularly nice area, until you looked a little harder then WHAM, in your face was this very handsome display going mostly unnoticed by the passing traffic. So it tickles me to make such a nice painting of an area that most people would never consider interesting, let alone nice enough to paint.

Here again is where an artist or those who can see beyond the surface reap the benefit of their sensitivity, or, if you will, their visual poetry.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

A Drifting Spectacle

Our skies often grace us with the most spectacular displays of color. Here is a very late afternoon in the chill of the winter sky. A beautiful spectacle set before all of us. I wonder who might be noticing this display and how many others are oblivious. I love seeing as I do, as an artist does.

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Last View

It was cold, crisp and beautiful outside on this winter's day. There is a new road that is being built across our town and I travelled to an area where the construction is visible. Once the road is done and the sound barrier wall erected, this view will be gone. The vegetation will undoubtedly be affected as well.

It was incredible to watch the colors shift in the landscape. The ground cover becoming greener and more magenta as time went by. This view is coming to an end in the next few months, and I was glad to capture it on canvas before it was gone.
9" x 12" Plein Air Oil Painting

Rice Canyon Revealed

9" x 12" Oil Painting

The Riverbed's Red

12" x 16" Oil Painting

Mid-Day Splendor, Castaic Lake

Castaic Lake is not far from my home and has always been a very quiet and beautiful area, especially during the week when no one is around. I travelled over there about a week ago with an appetite to paint something with water in it.

I went to the upper lake area which only had a few lone fisherman lazily casting their lines. It really was a beautiful scene. I realise my good fortune as I journey to these lovely sites, during the same hours that most people sit in stark cubicles with little to no view at all. How wonderful it is to have this as my chosen profession.

So here is Mid-Day Splendor as I see it. Soft breeze, gently moving against the lake's surface. A perfect California afternoon. I wouldn't miss it and am entirely happy to live here.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

The Narrows, Towsley Canyon

As I continue to paint the natural areas around my town, I keep thinking of places I had been to over the years. The Narrows came to mind one day, and I just couldn't shake the idea of painting this special place.

I became obsessed with it. I almost felt it was like a calling to get there and paint this thing. So I did. I hiked in and wandered till this narrow area between the mountains came into view. I was alone and a bit on alert, since I usually do not hike solo. Funny how your memory of a place is quite different than the reality.

There is a sensation when you stand beside these massive vertical walls which I have tried to capture through my pigment. A feeling of passage, as though you are walking through to a secret place which will reveal something very beautiful and special. I felt satisfied once I touched the cool rock walls. Standing there quietly as "The Narrows" held my gaze.

16" x 20" Oil Painting

Young Composer

Music filled the air one morning before school. A complex and haunting piece was being played by a young composer. How does this extraordinary music come from such an innocent child. Where is it coming from? Such expressions take years to develop, yet here it is moving through all who listen to this young composer.

5" x 5" Oil Painting

Front Yard Fantasy

Today sat on my front lawn and painted while my son did his homework. My mind was working to find some subject matter and I found myself imagining my view with no development. Just simple, sweet, kind of pure in a way, before so much had built around us. So I used what was in front of me and eliminated the clutter. There I found my "Front Yard Fantasy".

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Madonna and Child

This young woman has lived on my street for years. I have watched her grow from a very young child, to a young woman. She produces these beautiful little girls. who are a pleasure to paint. She is a symbol to me, a mother, perhaps too young, too many times, yet I am still fascinated with the beauty she creates with these children.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Towsley Canyon High

Funny how you can have a particular idea or place in mind, yet something even more extraordinary shows up on your journey before you have even reached your destination. This is what I have found to be true as I chase the open spaces. More often than not I find my gem somewhere unexpected. That is what happened during my day in Towsley Canyon.

18" x 24" Oil Painting

Sitting on the Curb

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Color Balls

This is a piece that I thought was complete, but after looking at it over the last several weeks, I decided to rework several areas. I feel much more satisfied with the results now. I think seeing the LA Art Show yesterday really gave me some good food for thought. Raised my personnal bar higher.

I intend on doing a series of children with these delightful beach balls. I love the imagery.

I will be working on a several landscape paintings over the next month for an upcoming exhibit ("Chasing Open Spaces") in March. These pieces will be posted as I complete them. I also hope to keep up with the smaller daily paintings as I can.


16" x 20" Oil Painting

Bouquet Garden

A special garden space where senior citizens spend their time digging in the dirt. It is a relief as they leave their small apartments to escape into the fresh air and sweet flowers.

9" x 12" Oil Painting

Birdbath in the Afternoon

Miniature pastels are fun especially when you also work pastel street paintings that are 12' x 12'. The difference in ratio is fascinating. Pastel is my first love. If you are interested in seeing some sample street paintings I have done, check out my web site lorellemiller.com

2" x 2.5 " Pastel Painting

Amongst Giants

How is it to live amongst giants?

Present on some days, obscured by the everyday on others.

My spirit awakens and the fog of familiarity is blown away.

I stand in awe, speechless as I breath in this everyday view.


14" x 18" Oil Painting

Scowl

I am working on a larger format landscape painting over the next several days, so this one was just a quick study. This woman's face expressed a lot to me. Scowl says it all.

2.5" x 3.5" Quick Study Oil Painting

Winter Sky Over the Riverbed

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Look for the Good

Sometimes paintings are like people. You may find that you just can't get along, but there is still something that intrigues you about the person or in this case the painting. Something hard to put into words, elusive but it still begs your forgiveness and wants to exist. So here it is a failed attempt, yet there's something about it...

9" x 9" Plein Air Oil Painting

Radiant Tree on a Forgotten Trail

Some treasures go unnoticed for years until we happen by them one day.
Here a forgotten beauty stands silently as the sun rests upon her brilliant crown.

14" x 18" Oil Painting

Burning Bush

Autumn's color finds it's way into the riverbed.

8" x 10" Plein Air Oil Painting

Berries on the Side

Experimentation and Fun with the Pallette Knife. Trying something a little different.

5" x 7" Oil Painting

Delight within View

A day of Classical Music, rich paint, and vision

11" x14" Oil Painting

Vanishing Grove

5" x 7" Plein Air Oil Painting

Perfect Pitch

7" x 8"
Pastel Painting

In Memory of Roger Seal

A man with a heart as big as the Rockies.

A man's man who would shed a tear and didn't care who was lookin.

Special was he who made granite his soul mate and pitched to the perfect tempo of God's rhythm and blues.

I had the honor of knowing him, of painting he who has left our worldly domain.

He now rides the currents above the peaks and knows peace, I pray.

You left us all too soon Roger, you will be remembered with smiles and sadness.

The strongest man I ever knew, lifting like a giant, these monoliths of marble for all of us mere mortals to carve away our pain, our joy.

Rest in Peace my friend and live in eternity.

Lorelle

Sunset Hills

9"x12" Oil Painting

Winter's Canyon

A cool Winter's day in the Canyon. Color and light abound in a place not far from home.

8"x10" Plein Air Oil Painting

Lush Lagoon

11"x14" Oil Painting

Grand View, Mentryville

A grand view of by gone days.

6"x8" Pastel

Golden Trail

The light of late afternoon creating a golden trail amoungst the grasses

8"x10" Oil Painting

Rim of Gold

God's Glory stands on a Rim of Gold
8"x10" Oil Painting

Maiden Crossing

We all move through passages in our life.
Here a young woman on a beautiful steed, I see a distant vision of myself.
Though years have passed this wondrous scene lives within me, as me.

8"x10" oil painting