Morning at Lake Jessamine, a Contemporary Impressionism Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Painting "en plein air", I tried to capture the light and shadow of the morning. The lake is a huge lake with pieces of land that jut out around the large center of it. Large trees surround the water, and the houses on the lake have beautiful views of nature. My focus was on the impressions of light and how it made dark contrasts of the trees and the water. Painting outside on a beautiful day is one of my favorite things to do! 9"H x 12"W original oil.

Rose Garden Trellis at Cypress Grove Park, Florida Oil Impressionist Style by Judy Batterson

Another beautiful morning at Cypress Grove Park brought me to the Rose Garden. I set up my easel in the shadow of a large oak tree and faced the trellis. The intense sunlight highlighted the yellow roses growing behind the trellis. Red and pink climbing roses grew on the shadow side of the trellis. A brick pathway through the trellis invited people to come into the garden. This impressionistic painting captured that morning. It made me stop and smell the roses! 9 x12" original oil.

Bag of Oranges, Florida Oranges from Vintage Postcard by Judy Batterson

A bag of Florida oranges puts a smile on anyone's face. The mesh, draw-cord bags have been around for a long time. Inspired by a vintage Florida postcard, just-picked bags of oranges are still popular. 5 x 7" original oil. For my Postcards from Florida project.

Basket of Citrus, Florida Vintage Postcard Painting of Oranges and Grapefruit by Judy Batterson

This painting was inspired by a vintage Florida postcard of oranges and grapefruit. Growers have been putting hand-picked tree-ripened citrus in baskets since 1922. The fruit baskets are still packed by hand for fresh delivery from Florida. 5 x 7 oil. For my Postcards from Florida project.

Plein Air Morning at Cypress Grove Park, Contemporary Impressionism Oil by Judy Batterson

The weather was perfect when I set up to paint in the middle of the field at Cypress Grove Park. The morning sunlight hit the large oak trees and the grass with intensity. This painting is all about the dramatic darks and lights that I saw before me. I loved mixing the oils and capturing the morning on canvas! I would call this style Contemporary Impressionism. 9 x 12 oil on canvas.

Mead Garden Palms, a Florida OIl Plein Air Landscape by Judy Batterson

Painting en plein air on location at Mead Garden, I set up my easel on the west side of the turtle pond in the back of the Garden. This area is almost jungle like with so many moss covered trees, palms, reeds, as well as otters, turtles, gators and water birds. The sun hit the palms and highlighted the back of the pond. My focal point became the trio of palms in front of a mossy oak with dark shadows in the underbrush. This spot captured the true essence of natural Florida! 9 x 12 Oil.

Lake Lily Impressions, a Florida Plein Air Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Joining with a group of plein air painters, I set up my easel on the north side of Lake Lily in Maitland, FL. It was late afternoon, so we had to capture the sun and shadows quickly. Without a lot of details, I focused on three trees across the lake. The impressions of darks and lights were extreme as the sun dropped fast. This is the resulting painting and a special memory of Lake Lily.
9"H x 12"W oil on gesso board.

Eco Trip, a Florida Beach Painting of Kayaks on Sand by Judy Batterson

When I discovered the colorful kayaks pulled up on the sand of an island on the Intracoastal Waterway, I loved the scene! I took lots of photos because I was in a boat viewing it, and then I painted the scene in the studio. The intriguing part of this was that it was so still, hot and calm that day, and there were no clues to the whereabouts of the people. I found out later that the Marine Discovery Center in Volusia County had sent volunteers out to search for turtle nests. Although I have posted this painting before, I am reposting it because it has been chosen for the Biennial VI Exhibit at the Museum of Florida Art in DeLand, FL. Exhibit runs from Nov. 11 to March 4, 2012.

Lovely Lemon Tree, a Florida Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Growing up in Florida, I took it for granted that everyone had a lemon tree or citrus of some sort. As kids, it was like having decorated Christmas trees in the yards. The beautiful ripe yellow lemons were tart on the inside though. Just like the old song about the lovely lemon tree. As an adult, I now look at the lemon like life....when life gives you lemons, make lemonade or lemon cupcakes or lemon martinis! 9 x 12" original oil on canvas.

Orange Crate, A Florida Vintage Postcard Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Florida citrus was being shipped everywhere in the US in plain wooden crates until around 1904. To compete with the rising industry in California, Florida growers created distinctive labels which were pasted to the ends of the crates. The labels had art depicting Florida's exotic flowers, birds and animals. Gift crates were stenciled on the sides "from Florida", guaranteeing that people would know these were Florida oranges! This was inspired by a vintage Florida postcard and painted on canvas. I have painted others on masonite. 5 x 7" original oil.

The Orange Picker, a Florida Vintage Postcard Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Citrus groves shaped Florida's history. The first groves were planted in the 1500's by Spanish explorers, and, by the late 1800's, workers had poured into the state to pick oranges from the thriving trees. Picked at the peak of freshness, oranges were put into
shoulder sacks, emptied into crates and then shipped all over the US. Oranges helped make Florida famous! 5 x 7" original oil painting. Part of my vintage "Postcards from Florida" painting project.

Chokoloskee Sunset, a Florida Coastal Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

On the west coast of Florida, south of Marco Island, Chokoloskee Island has a small settlement. From Chokoloskee, you can fish Everglades National Park and Ten Thousand Islands. The beauty and wildlife of the sheltered waters make it a fisherman's ideal destination. And the sunsets are full of striking color! 5 x 7" original oil painting. Part of my Postcards from Florida project.

Moon Over Mosquito Lagoon, a Florida Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

Mosquito Lagoon is part of the Indian River and the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. It runs next to Canaveral National Seashore. The meandering tidal flows, oyster bars, mangroves and grass flats create conditions for some of the best fishing in FL and best redfishing in the world. The lagoon is beautiful both day and night, especially by moonlight. 5 x 7" original oil. Part of my "Postcards from Florida" project.

Chief William McKinley Osceola in Dugout Canoe, a Florida Vintage Postcard Painting by Judy Batterson

Chief Wm McKinley Osceola (1883-1966) was the patriarch and medicine man of the Miccosukee Florida Seminole Nation. He was known as a great hunter and fisherman and lived all of his life in an Everglades camp 30 miles west of Miami. A direct descendent of Chief Osceola, he presented Pres. Truman a Seminole shirt in 1947 and made headlines. He also broke with tribal tradition and became the first Seminole to send his children to white men's schools. His son, Mike, entered Miami HIgh School in 1937 at age 16. Because of his great strength and size, he played football but "didn't want to hurt the little white fellows", according to an interview. This painting of Chief Osceola in his younger years was from a black and white vintage postcard with color references from other tribal photos. 5 x 7" original oil painting

Weeki Wachee Mermaid, a Vintage Florida Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Weeki Wachee Springs was quite a big attraction in Florida from the 1940's -70's. The mermaid show was great underwater entertainment. Mermaids used tubes of air as they performed gracefully. Today Weeki Wachee Springs is a State Park and has Florida's only spring fed water park, along with canoes, kayaks,and a revival of the mermaid shows. 5 x 7" original oil.

A Day at the Beach, Beach Art by Judy Batterson

A day at the beach means palm trees, sand dunes, sea oats, a sandy path perhaps with a treasure from the sea, and sailboats catching the ocean breeze. I put all of these in this painting to capture the feel of a Florida beach day. The only thing missing is you! 5 x 7" original oil.

Fiery Sunset, Tropical Sunsets in Red and Oranges by Judy Batterson

Every sunset is different. Sometimes the sun seems so close that it is like a ball of fire turning the surroundings red. This sunset had fiery streaks in the sky which were reflected in the water. The palms were silhouetted against this breathtaking color. A true brilliance of light captured! 5 x 7" original oil painting.

Simply Palms, Florida Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

Palms reflected in the water stir memories of Florida. The clouds in the sky are mirrored in the water with the reeds and grasses. The darker palms stand out against the background. A true Florida scene. 5 x7" original oil painting.

Florida Oranges, a Crate of Florida Citrus by Judy Batterson

What is better than an orange from Florida? A crate of oranges!! The inspiration for this painting came from a vintage post card. I took the idea and added depth and color along with the orange crate label and orange blossoms. A day without orange juice is like a day without sunshine! 5 x 7 original oil painting.

Orange Grove, a Florida Citrus Industry Staple by Judy Batterson

Florida and orange groves go hand in hand. Citrus grows everywhere in the state, but the big groves are mainly in central and southern Florida. Rows of trees filled with oranges are a beautiful sight. Sandy roads give access to the trees for picking those oranges. Have you had your juice today?! 5 x 7" original oil painting.

Red Pagoda, Scenic Orlando Lake Eola Park Attraction by Judy Batterson

In downtown Orlando, the beautiful city park surrounding Lake Eola boasts a unique fountain in the lake's center and a red Chinese pagoda on the shore. This pagoda has become a place for weddings and other events. The red stands out against the lush green palms and oaks. Swans and ducks like to swim near the walkway by the pagoda. Lake Eola is always a hub of activity for downtown, and the pagoda is a charming attraction there. 5 x 7 " original oil painting.

Lake Eola Fountain, Orlando City Icon by Judy Batterson

In downtown Orlando, the famous Centennial Fountain is an icon of the City Beautiful. Surrounded by a broad sidewalk, trees, a playground, and an amphitheater, Lake Eola is a hub of activity for walks and festivals. Swan boats grace the lake along with live swans. This fountain marks the center of activity for downtown as the water splashes day and night. 5 x 7 original oil painting.

Mr. Pelican, Beach Art by Judy Batterson

Why, hello there, Mr. Pelican! Pelicans, especially brown pelicans, are always part of Florida's coastal environment. They fly in groups low over the water. When resting, a pelican will pull his head down. I can recall a poem that my dad taught me at a very young age: "There once was a bird called a pelican, Whose beak could hold more than his belly can, He can hold in his beak, Enough food for a week, But I don't know how in the 'heck' he can." 5 x 7" original oil painting.

I Heart Florida, Beach Art from the Heart by Judy Batterson

A friend sent me a photo of clouds that looked like hearts in the sky. That inspired me to do this whimsical painting of pelicans flying through an open heart cloud with another heart cloud below. I 'heart' Florida because of the beaches, palms and balmy days. And that is what I tried to show in this painting! 5 x7" original oil

Safari Sunset, Tropical Beach Sunset Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

A movie called Endless Summer documented two surfers chasing the sun around the world while searching for the perfect wave. The movie poster had the huge bright orb as the logo for this surfing safari. Whether in Africa or Florida, when the sun sets as a flaming ball of light, it is awe inspiring! 12 x 24" original oil on canvas.

Towards the Light, Abstract Oil in Blues by Judy Batterson

This loose flow of color is a bit unusual for me, but I wanted to try to express in paint what goes on in my head. If you swim underwater and look up, you swim towards the light. If you are in a storm, you know the sun still shines way above the clouds. We are always seeking the light. The bands of blue represent going from darkness into light. Our souls are drawn towards the light to give us life and hope. 12 x 24" original oil on canvas

Tall Palm Tiny Island, Tropical Beach Art by Judy Batterson

There are many tiny islands in the Keys with teeny tiny island cottages. Although the cottage I saw was old and weathered, I painted this one with fun island colors. The entire canvas was underpainted in blue, then many layers were added until the tall palm finished the landscape. I like the way the tiny house on the tiny island gives such a contrast to the tall palm in front of it. Such a fun painting and a joy to paint! Tall and tiny and tropical! 12 x 36" original oil on canvas.

Florida Hammock, a Florida Coastal Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

Palms and mangroves are painted in detail as they grow out of the foliage along the waterway. This hammock, with abundant wildlife and strong reflections, is typical of the marshy hammocks along the low coastal areas of Florida. A cool palette of blues and greens make a calming scene. Very natural and tranquil. 16 x 20 Framed Original Oil on canvas.

Playful Palm, Tropical Palm Tree on Beach by Judy Batterson

This is the cutest little palm tree on the beach! The fun part is a sky full of the colors of pinks, blue, lavender, and little bits of yellow. This is a tropical scene that is happy. I had fun painting this and love the happy way people respond to it. 8x10" Oil on masonite. Framed original $325 Available at Let Us Frame It, Orlando, FL.

Moon Shadows, Tropical Florida Night with Full Moon Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

When a full moon is in the night sky , the reflection on the water sparkles like diamonds while the moonlight creates palm shadows. This painting captures the moment of night light tranquility. The whiteness of the moonlight and its highlights contrast against the darkness of the night. The value contrast has high drama and creates a surreal world. The full moon creates patterns of light while it illuminates the clouds, the water and the shoreline. The dark values keep everything still. Framed 16 x 20" Original Oil on canvas $1500 (Giclee available $325) Chosen by Orlando Magazine for "Paint the Town" 8th Annual Exhibition, Chosen for "Simply the Best" book by Timothy's Gallery, Available at Let Us Frame It in Orlando, FL.

Swampy Road, A Florida Oil Landscape of Old Florida by Judy Batterson

Off the beaten paths, sandy roads lead back into hammocks and lagoons. I saw some beautiful untouched areas of coastal Florida by walking down a road on a sunny day until it ended in the water. Palms, pines and mangroves were in abundance. The reflection of the blue sky made the brackish water appear to be a beautiful blue. The palette of cool colors captured the feel of the green flora as well as the blue water and sky. Hammocks reflect different values and colors depending on the sun and the sky. Very refreshing in a back to nature way. 16 x 20" Framed Oil on masonite $1200

Sandpiper Tracks, Beach Sand Dune Ocean Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

A view of the ocean through the dunes showcased the sun lighting up the sky with vivid colors. What caught my eye were the tiny little birdie tracks in the sand. Sandpipers had scurried to the water's edge through the sand. It took many tries to get those little tracks just right, but I think they made the painting more interesting. The detail in this painting shows that the dunes are more than just sand. They can be fascinating and always changing with vegetation and the wind. Original 8 x 10 oil on masonite. (Sold)

Blue Cypress Sunset, a Tropical Florida Lake Sunset by Judy Batterson

“Blue Cypress Sunset” 24" x 36" original oil will be on exhibit at The Orlando Museum of Art Members Visions June 2, 2011.
Blue Cypress Lake was introduced to me by a man who loves to fish there. The lake is undeveloped except for a solitary fish camp. The rest is pure pristine Florida, filled with cypress trees and wildlife. When the sun sets, the lake turns into a sea of fiery color with silhouettes of cypress, reeds and grasses. I did not use black to paint the silhouettes but used a mixture of burnt umber with ultramarine blue or cadmium red. The effect of the darks against the lights is vivid. There are many layers of oil with the last layer consisting of grasses painted with individual brushstrokes. Blue Cypress Lake captivates those who explore it under the hanging moss of the trees! Oil on masonite. $2400

Serene Sunset, Florida Oil Landscape of Palm Islands by Judy Batterson

Islands of palms, trees, and mangroves cast shadows in the water as the sun sets. The clouds break the sun into shades of yellow, yellow-orange, orange, and rose while being reflected in the water. A Florida coastal sunset, alive with changing colors, can take your breath away. This is the Florida that the eco-minded seek, usually in kayaks and small boats. Moving in the still water between the islands, one can see wildlife of the air and water. Watching the sunset is a bonus. 16 x 20" Original Oil on canvas.

Garden of Eden, Oil Painting with Palm and Stream by Judy Batterson

The Little Book of Living Prayers with Garden of Eden cover: "Garden of Eden" is an 18 x 24" original oil on canvas..
The Little Book of Living Prayers by Doris M. Matthews has just been published! My painting "Garden of Eden" is the cover. Author Doris has prayers for people from all walks of life and in every sort of need. Truly inspirational words about Christ's love and healing power!
Doris commissioned me for the cover painting. I chose Eden, the garden of God, because it is full of symbolism. The description is in Genesis 2. Abundant fruit bearing and beautiful trees grew there while a stream watered the Garden. Archeologists believe that the date palm was one of the first trees in the Garden. It was a place of peace and serenity. This is my glimpse into the Garden of Eden. May this picture bring peace to those who view it, especially as they read the prayers.
The book of prayers is now available from The Healing Ministry at The Glennon House in Winter Park Florida for $6 (or $7, if mailed.) More information through All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park, Florida.
It was a blessing to be a part of this year long project.

A Magnolia Memory for Niki, a large Magnolia Blossom by Judy Batterson

My friend commissioned me to paint a large magnolia blossom for her home. This flower has much meaning for her. The good news is that my neighborhood had blooming magnolia trees at the time of this painting. I studied the bowl of each petal and the way the light hit the curl. I used warm colors for the background to bring life to the bloom. And I have more appreciation for Georgia O'Keefe now. A large blossom makes a dramatic statement. And I let my friend name her painting!

Perfect Day on the Lagoon, a Florida Oil Painting of Waves and Palm on a Balmy Day, by Judy Batterson

Mosquito Lagoon on the east coast of Florida opens out to the Atlantic Ocean. It is a natural ecological haven surrounded by many small uninhabited islands. Sand bars appear at low tide. When the sun is out and an ocean breeze is blowing, this lagoon can be nature at its finest. Clouds seem to be a mile high. It is a beautiful place to be, whether to paint or fish or enjoy the scenery. I had to paint this in many layers to portray the sand and depths of the water. 12 x 18" Original Oil on masonite. $800 Framed

poinciana and Oranges, a Florida Oil Landscape of Orange Grove, Poinciana Tree, Old Florida by Judy Batterson

A large poinciana tree is in bloom with brilliant red blossoms. Across the path is an orange grove laden with fruit. The interplay of light and shadow is shown by the sunlight on the bright colors of red, orange and green while billowing clouds stand out against a dark sky. Florida heat leads to afternoon thunderstorms, and the painting tells this story. Large and colorful, this is a painting of Florida the way it used to be and can still be found down sandy back roads. In the tradition of the Florida Highwaymen. 21x36" Original Oil on masonite.

Eco Trip, Beach Art Florida Oil Landscapes with Kayaks by Judy Batterson

This work combines all that I want to express in a painting, and I am very excited about it. On a boating trip to the Mosquito Lagoon, I passed an island where four kayaks were pulled up next to a beached old rowboat. The bright colors of the kayaks were dazzling against the white sandy beach. I captured it in photos and sketches, compelled to put a composition together to paint the scene. Discovering the beauty of Florida is an adventure. What a joy to paint this, even though it took much longer than I ever anticipated! Exploring coastal Florida is a celebration of an ecological treasure...a real eco trip! 24 x 30" oil on panel.

Indian River Sunset, Beach Art and River Art in a Florida Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Sunsets are like snowflakes. No two are alike, and they are all beautiful! I love to watch the sun set over the Indian River with the palm silhouettes against a vivid sky. The ball of light drops fast behind the horizon, and the clouds determine how the light is dispersed in the sky. Always a breathtaking sight! I love to paint sunsets! 6" x 12" oil on 3-D board.

Smyrna Dunes, a Florida Coastal Landscape of Palms and Sand Dunes by Judy Batterson

On the Florida east coast at New Smyrna Beach, the Intracoastal flows into the Atlantic by the jetties. The area there, known as Smyrna Dunes, has sand dunes punctuated by clusters of palm trees. People love to walk around the dunes, going from the ocean side to the river side and back. As I was walking there, I studied the brightness of the sand against the palms. The sunlight made every detail of the palm trees stand out as it reflected brilliantly off of the hot sand. I used lights and darks to show the contrasts. Original Oil on masonite. Chosen for "Best of America Oil Artists Vol. ll" book by Kennedy Publishing. (Giclees available $120, matted prints $65)

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, a Small Oil of a Famous Lighthouse by Judy Batterson

This small oil painting of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is a companion piece to the Ponce Inlet Sailboat. The lighthouse is on the north side of the Inlet where the river and ocean meet between Daytona and New Smyrna Beach. I climbed it once and the view was amazing! It is still a working lighthouse and a landmark in this area. 4 x 4" oil on canvas with easel $55

Ponce Inlet Sailboat, Small Florida Oil Painting by Judy Batterson

Ponce Inlet is where the river meets the ocean between Daytona and New Smyrna Beaches. Boat traffic is heavy in this area, and on a good day, numerous sailboats are heading out to sea. I like to paint them from the south side of the inlet. This small painting is
oil on a 4 x 4" stretched canvas which sits on a small easel. $45 www.judybatterson.com

Purple Rain III, a Florida Springtime Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

The 8x8 oil paintings side by side give the image of a large landscape. The tabebuia trees and oaks are balanced, but the stream is off balance to give the effect of depth. The pink and purple impasto blossoms slowly rain onto the ground. The foreground flowers heighten the spring colors. When framed and hung horizontally, the eye closes the gap between the frames, creating one large scene. 8" x 16" plus frames, $400 for the set.

Purple Rain II, a Florida Springtime Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

This is the other part of the total landscape joining Purple Rain I. Purple and pink tabebuia trees bloom profusely in the spring in Florida. And then the blossoms fall to the ground like rain! Impasto oil strokes accentuate the blossoms. I painted one large landscape of tabebuia trees, water and oaks as a diptych. Framed in beautiful floater frames, each painting can stand on its own, Or side by side they portray a large landscape in a small area. 8 x 8" oil framed, $225.

Purple Rain I, a Florida Springtime Oil Landscape by Judy Batterson

Purple and pink tabebuia trees bloom profusely in the spring in Florida. And then the blossoms fall to the ground like rain! Impasto oil strokes accentuate the blossoms. I painted one large landscape of tabebuia trees, water and oaks as a diptych. Framed in a beautiful floater frame, each oil painting can stand on its own. Or side by side they portray a large landscape in a small area.
8 x 8", $225 Framed.

Stillness On The Tomoka, Florida Oil Landscape of Palms, River, Egret by Judy Batterson

On the Florida east coast, the Tomoka River is a pristine wilderness river. I was asked by a friend who grew up there to capture this in a painting . I did site visits, sketches and took photos. There was such a sense of peace with the gentle flow of the river. Some areas had dense mangroves, palms and underbrush. Other mangroves opened up to the sky, allowing sunlight to reflect off of the water. A white egret stood out against the dark water while birds flew overhead. This river is "old Florida" appreciated by nature lovers everywhere. The commissioned 24 x 36" original oil is sold, but giclees are available ($425).

Paradise Found, original Florida oil landscape of beach, ocean, and palms by Judy Batterson

Paradise Found” If you could imagine serenity, it would be a quiet, uninhabited island of gently blowing palms. The white edge of the blue sea caresses the soft pink sand. The painting has a soft, quiet feeling. The pastels of the sand and sea soften the shadows under the palms. In the distance, there is another island. The afternoon clouds are building and billowing. Islands like this beckon boaters. Like in this painting, those who discover these islands experience the tranquility of paradise, if only for an afternoon. Blended color areas softened the feel of the painting. Original Oil on masonite. 20" x 28" $2400 (Giclee available $400)

A Walk in the Park, a Florida oil landscape by Judy Batterson

This is another painting in my "springtime in Florida" series with a focus on the yellow tabebuia tree. This tree blooms brilliant
yellow petals which fall to the ground below. There are many types of tabebuia trees, but the yellow is my favorite. This painting captures a memory of a springtime walk in Leu Gardens. Impasto brushstrokes built up the petals. 12 x 12" oil on board, $350 and beautifully framed.
For more Florida landscapes, visit www.judybatterson.com