As winter approaches, we find ourselves drawn to artwork that offers a sense of comfort and tranquility. These new paintings from Carol O’Malia, Eric Abrecht, and John Brandon Sills exude a serene elegance, filling any space with warmth and calm—a perfect antidote to the chill of the season.
John Brandon Sills
Waves and Clouds by Baltimore-based artist John Brandon Sills is a captivating piece that evokes a sense of tranquility and awe. The painting captures a serene waterscape bathed in the soft midday glow. Subtle brushstrokes bring the clouds to life as they drift across the canvas, echoing the gentle ripples in the water below. Sills’ thoughtful use of warm and cool tones creates a perfect balance, allowing you to almost feel the warmth of the sun and the cool sea breeze.
This painting is a stunning example of atmospheric and tonal mastery, using a muted palette of blues and grays to create an ethereal scene. The horizon line subtly dissolves into the mist, blurring the boundaries between sky and water and emphasizing the transient beauty of nature. The soft, diffused brushwork shifts the focus from literal representation to mood and emotion, encouraging the viewer to experience the serenity and stillness of the moment.
Eric Abrecht
Eric Abrecht’s Abandoned captures the nostalgic charm of a deserted diner, where time seems to stand still. The muted greens, soft yellows, and subtle blues create a sense of calm and serenity, while the contrast between the weathered building and the lush greenery around it adds a feeling of quiet reflection. It’s a scene that invites you to pause and appreciate its timeless beauty.
Shoreward is a serene and abstract ocean landscape. Its gentle blend of soft blues, sandy tones, and airy whites captures the essence of a peaceful shoreline, evoking memories of warm summer days. The loose brushstrokes and layered textures give it an ethereal quality, making it an ideal piece to brighten up any space and bring a refreshing, summery atmosphere into a room.
View more work by Eric Abrecht
Carol O’Malia
O’Malia’s inviting still life Support System captures the essence of rest and tranquility. A towering stack of pillows, rendered with meticulous detail, takes center stage, inviting us to reflect on the solace found in simplicity and the quiet strength of support.
The sky blue background in this piece further enhances the sense of calm, evoking feelings of relaxation and contentment. The painting’s composition, with the pillows seemingly floating against the backdrop, creates a dreamlike quality. It invites the viewer to imagine themselves enveloped in a cloud of comfort.
View more work by Carol O’Malia
Email inquiry@merrittgallery for more information about these works
