About
The painter
A bit about me
My name is Maren Westfall, and I am a watercolor artist based in Idaho, USA. My background is primarily in botany; however, I have been collecting minerals most of my life and decided to start painting them about 8 years ago. I suppose I got hooked, because I can't seem to stop! I am a self-taugh painter. While I hold degrees in Botany and Fine Art, my art degree was in Film Photography!
Outside of painting, I enjoy spending time with my two highly spirited daughters and being active outdoors. I love hiking, biking, and traveling. I am also an avid knitter and keep my fingers busy by the fire during the long Rocky Mountain winters.
The Art
My painting process
Each of my paintings begins with in-depth research about the mineral and its locality, because I like to become thoroughly acquainted with my subject. Painting minerals has become a fantastic way for me to learn about them, actually.
Once I find images of a piece I’d like to paint, I begin sketching it onto watercolor paper. I do not do any preliminary sketches. Using the “invisible grid” method, I get a rough shape of the subject down. I then go in and refine each quadrant and make detailed markings. Once I start painting, I just go with the flow and follow my detailed sketch.
When I make posters, I scan, and then “cut out” each minerals and arrange it on a white canvas in photoshop.
The Shop
How it works
Your prints and posters are printed locally in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. They are printed using the giclee printing process, which is the highest possibly reproduction process, ensuring you receive a print that looks exactly like the original.
All of my prints, posters, cards, stickers are designed by me. I am also responsible for fulfilling every single order and I put as much care into wrapping each and every item as possible. Your support of my artwork means everything to me, so thank you for being here!
