Elk in forest oil painting

There is a quiet courage in the way the cardinal holds its place among the blossoms, as if the garden itself has offered him a moment of refuge. The soft whites and greens gather around his bright red form like a circle of calm, letting his vivid heart shine without strain. In this stillness, the bird becomes a symbol of hope carried lightly — a reminder that even the smallest presence can brighten a weary day. The scene feels like a blessing whispered in color, a gentle assurance that beauty endures, even in the tender spaces where light and emotion meet.14" by 14"  Sold in a floating frame Signed Canvas or Paper Prints Available, Contact Artist for more information. mary@maryspaintings.com

In The Autumn Sentinel, the blue jay rises like a bright, defiant note against the warm hush of fall. Perched among leaves that burn in shades of ember and gold, it stands alert, as if guarding the last color before winter claims the branches. The soft green field and pale sky behind it create a gentle contrast, allowing the bird’s vivid blues to feel almost ceremonial. This is a moment of stillness and pride — a stately creature holding its place in the turning season. This is 11" by 14", 1.5" deep, oil on wood with painted sides Signed Canvas or Paper Prints Available, Contact Artist for more information. mary@maryspaintings.com

On the eve of the catastrophic August 2016 flood, the wetlands held their breath beneath a sky splitting open with fire and shadow. Pelicans carved through the heavy air as cypress sentinels braced against the quickly approaching storm, and the last light flared defiantly across Lake Arthur’s darkening water. This painting captures that charged, unforgettable moment—beauty standing its ground before the storm reshaped South Louisiana. It is 40 x 30, 1.5 depth, gallery wrap style with painted sides Signed Canvas or Paper Prints Available, Contact Artist for more information. mary@maryspaintings.com

The first whooping crane hatchling born in Louisiana since 1938 is more than a milestone; it is a breath restored to a story that nearly ended. In this triptych, the cranes move through light and marshland like living prayers, each panel holding a chapter of a species’ long journey back from silence. The tiny hatchling—once front‑page news, once unthinkable—becomes the heart of the piece, a symbol of resilience so delicate it feels almost holy. This painting doesn’t just honor the moment; it preserves the hope that rose from the marsh after eighty‑three years, reminding us that even the rarest lives can return when land, patience, and love make room for them. Celebrating the first successful hatchling of a Whooping Crane since 1938) Signed Canvas or Paper Prints Available, Contact Artist for more information. mary@maryspaintings.com