Artist Donna Lee Nyzio paints evocative reflections of the coastal land and water she loves. See more of her maritime oil paintings by visiting her website.
“Summer Catch” Oil on Panel, 12” x 6”
My paintings usually begin with adventure. Sometimes close to home, other times, to places I have never been. I meet people, I see things and I experience places. I am then compelled to share everything I learn with a painting (or twelve!).
“Wanchese Winter” Oil on Panel, 36” x 24”
Do I take photos? I sure do. I also make sketches and do plein aire studies. My paintings grow from my travels. Once, I came home and described to friends one of my future paintings. I saw it clear as day in my head—the light, the person, the boat and the feeling. “Look,” I said, “Here is the photo.” They looked at the photo, each other, and then at me. “I don’t see that in the photo,” they said. “Well,” I answered, “I have not painted it yet!”
“Planting Pound Poles” Oil on Panel, 16” x 8”
The photograph is just a jump off point; something where I can pick and choose additional items for added dimension or stimulate that particular memory when I get to the studio.
“Long Reflections” Oil on Panel, 36” x 24”
After the “I see a painting here!” moment, I compose a tight, geometric underpainting with big bold shapes. I move a thin transparent wash around on the panel until the composition has an appropriate balance and structure. A good sense of balance, no matter how extreme, makes me happy.
“Golden Nugget” Oil on Panel, 20” x 20”
With a rag, I wipe out some highlights. I top it all off with fluid and organic strokes to capture an emotion, attitude, event or object. Though I develop my paintings using a hard structured underpainting as I paint, they sometimes evolve into their own story. Sometimes I stick to my original plan, sometimes I don’t and just follow my brush.
“Gloucester Docks” Oil on Panel, 36” x 12”
I love being an American Realist Oil Painter living and painting in coastal North Carolina—a representational painter working in a traditional manner.
“Evening Catch” Oil on Panel, 16 x 8”
I paint on wooden or clay panels (which are easier to store, frame and show in a high-humidity environment) using oil paints and brushes. My neutral palette brings beauty and peace to this crazy connected world.
“Crab Pots” Oil on Panel, 16” x 20”
Whether or not you’re familiar with maritime themes, you can enjoy the air of tranquility, subtle story and color that my paintings embody.
“Bad Penny” Oil on Panel, 16” x 8”
I prefer to recognize the art in everything that is around me in the world and hopefully help other people appreciate their environment as well.
“Orange Hat” Oil on Claybord, 18” x 14”
I look for opportunities to learn, experience, and grow personally and professionally. I enjoy looking forward to my next adventure in paint.
Artist Donna Lee Nyzio invites you to follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
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