About the Artist...

For over twenty-five years Marilyn M. Belle-Isle has worked in fine arts, primarily painting in watercolors and more recently in oils. Her paintings, often inspired by nature, range from realism to abstract. Each piece takes several weeks or months to complete. The process can best be described in the artist's words:

"Ideas for paintings present themselves so strongly, I cannot help but notice. I try to capture what inspires and stirs within me. Often, I'm drawn to paint living forms: close-ups in nature, and portraits. As I paint, I treasure the glimpses of a deeper understanding of my inner "self", life, and the inter-connectedness of all living things. Whether painting the light in a still life, or the inner depth within a portrait, intuition guides me. As the process begins, a few shapes are drawn. Numerous transparent layers of colors are applied; new shapes, light, and atmospheric qualities emerge, creating mystery and depth in the background. Color relationships, patterns and movement develop as the composition evolves."

Marilyn's paintings have been included in many juried exhibitions. Her works have received numerous awards including Best of Show awards. Her work has also been presented in one-person shows and small group exhibits.

Professional memberships include the Webster Art Club (President 1997-2000), signature membership in the Rochester Art Club (President 2001-2002), and signature member of the Niagara Frontier Watercolor Society.

Marilyn earned BS and MS degrees in Elementary Education, taught elementary school, and took art courses at the Rochester Institute of Technology's College of Fine Arts. Early in her artistic career, she designed and created pottery and stained glass. As her focus turned to painting, she studied with nationally known artists at various workshops.

Archival, museum-quality "giclee" reproductions of Marilyn's work are available. She digitally corrects each image, selects the finest materials, and prints giclees to her specifications.

Marilyn's art is included in churches, businesses, and private collections.

A wife, mother of two, and grandmother, has her hometown studio in Webster, New York.