Maud Durland: Capturing the Spirit of the Napa Valley

By Paula Philipps

Whether you walk the path of a tree-lined road, gaze at the multi-colored shadows cast from an evening sun on rolling hills, or reflect on the serenity of drops in azure-blue waters, your senses are rewarded when you experience the beauty of Maud Durland's watercolor paintings.

An award-winning artist from Portland, Oregon, Durland creates paintings that "indulge the eyes and vacation the mind." Her paintings are a visual escape into tranquility. The muted shades and play of light and shadow engage all who view them with a sense of serenity.

Swedish-born Durland says she was inspired by a grandfather she never knew. "My mother's father died when she was just five years old, but there were several of his drawings, paintings and statues around the house. I also had a childhood friend whose mother painted with oils," she added. "We used to spend time drawing and painting together."

Later, Durland studied through the Famous Artists School in Amsterdam and says she began painting with watercolor in 1999. She further developed her painting style, learning from floral painter Susan McKinnon, North Carolina landscape watercolorist Tony Couch, figurative painter Arne Westerman and master watercolorist Tom Lynch.

"I developed my own style of 'looseness'. I don't follow an exact realism, but create paintings that people can enjoy," she says. "I'm always learning."

Durland has won several awards for her work, including an Award of Achievement and Award of Distinction from the Watercolor Society of Oregon; Best of Show at the Lake Artists' Annual Oregon exhibit; Grand Prize winner for the Rose Art Show at the Portland Rose Festival, and honors at the Lake Oswego Festival of Arts.

Light and shadow are important in Durland's work, as evidenced by her landscapes of Napa Valley, a favorite subject. It's also where one of her two daughters lives.

"I definitely like to paint Napa Valley scenes. The rolling hills are so beautiful there, and I visit every year during different seasons."

Her series of paintings featuring grapes demonstrates her masterful use of color and light, their realistic forms subdued by pastel hues.

Another favorite subject is the scenes she captured near her Lake Oswego home, including a boat docked lakeside, dappled water and seagrass-covered sand dunes. Her paintings of children digging in the sand evoke memories for all who have enjoyed such childhood pursuits.

True to her Swedish background, Durland offers a series of notecards highlighting her own childhood heritage. A nutcracker whose delicate features and whimsical form stands ready. A door festooned with wreaths and wooden shoes lying atop a pile of greenery are reminders of her family's customs.

"I want to create paintings that people enjoy having in their own homes," Durland says. "People tell me they feel peaceful and relaxed when they view my paintings. That makes me pleased as well."

Additionally, Durland does commissioned portraits. Her subjects appear comfortable and relaxed, as if inviting you to share in conversation.

To purchase Maud’s artwork, visit her website: maudart.com, or call: (503) 635-7928.
Maud’s artwork makes the perfect gift for a wine country wedding!