About
The Artist
About me
My name is Maren Westfall, and I am a watercolor artist, naturalist, and mineral collector 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 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 I do things
Your prints and posters are printed locally in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. They are printed using the giclee process, the highest-quality reproduction method, ensuring you receive a print that looks exactly like the original.All of my prints, posters, cards, and 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!
