Deena Ball

Artist Statement

When I decide to paint a scene, I am often inspired by how light interacts with the landscape. Clear northern light, expansive vistas, light refracting off jagged shoreline rocks, and the perpetual shimmer of the ocean all serve as sources of inspiration. I am also captivated by how light dances among dense pines, birch, and oaks in the forest.

On foggy days, I shift my focus to changing colors and subtle shifts in value. As I paint, a distinct mood emerges as I capture the effects of light. The sun sparkling across rocks and ocean is invigorating, while early dawn light turns the world pink and tranquil, bringing a sense of calm and hope.

The Maine landscape also has a darker, stormier side, with deep pine woods where silence prevails, powerful rivers that can wash out roads, and a rising ocean that threatens and claims human creations. Perhaps it is the frequent gloomy skies that make an artist appreciate the nuances of gray and the profound impact of sunlight.

My paintings aim to capture a moment in time and evoke an emotional response, fostering a deeper collective appreciation for our land and nature.