Embracing Nature’s Serenity: A Painter’s Reflection on Trolley Road

There’s something truly enchanting about painting outdoors, especially at a small public boat access off Trolley Road in Guilford, CT. This quiet spot, where a few fishermen launch their boats or kayaks, feels like a hidden gem. My husband often comes here to fish, drawn by the tide pools that appear when the tide is coming in—perfect for both catching fish and crabbing. While he finds joy in his time by the water, I set up my easel, eager to capture the beauty of the landscape with my brushes and paints.

Waiting for a Ride by Linda S Marino, 10 x 20, oil, en plein air, ©2020

A Love for Painting Local Scenes

There is something deeply fulfilling about painting the places I know and love. Connecticut, with its ever-changing landscapes, offers an incredible variety of subjects to explore. From rolling hills and dense forests to charming town greens and bustling harbors, every scene holds a unique story waiting to be told through paint. Living along the Connecticut shoreline, I am especially drawn to the beauty of Guilford’s coastal views. The interplay of light on the water, the ever-shifting tides, and the charming boats that dot the harbors provide endless inspiration. Whether it’s the quiet solitude of an early morning or the golden hues of sunset reflecting off the water, these local scenes speak to me in a way that feels both personal and universal. Through my paintings, I aim to capture the essence of these moments, allowing others to experience the same sense of wonder and connection that I feel when standing before them.

A Dance of Light and Color

As the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, a warm, golden glow washes over the scene. The water sparkles like a thousand tiny diamonds, reflecting the sky above. The gentle ripples mirror the clouds, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Each brushstroke becomes a celebration of this peaceful moment, capturing not just the colors but the essence of relaxation that comes from being outdoors. The little white boat, bobbing gently in the water, seems to beckon—a reminder of adventures waiting just beyond the horizon.

The Call of Adventure

The boat, resting quietly on the shore, is more than just a means of transport—it’s a symbol of anticipation and exploration. It calls to those who seek to venture beyond the familiar and discover hidden treasures along the water’s edge. As I paint, I feel deeply connected to the landscape, as if it whispers stories of the past and dreams of the future. The very act of plein air painting immerses me in the moment, allowing me to translate the emotion of the scene onto my canvas.

More Than Just a Scene

This piece is more than a simple landscape—it’s a reflection of love, patience, and the beauty of shared experiences. It captures those quiet afternoons spent together, where time seems to stand still and the world outside fades away. Every painting tells a story, and this one speaks of serenity, companionship, and the joy of nature’s embrace. I often think about how these landscapes have witnessed countless sunrises and sunsets, each one unique and beautiful in its own way.

Bringing the Experience Home

While the original painting, Waiting for A Ride, has found a new home, I’m thrilled to share that prints are available in my online gallery and print shop. My hope is that this piece resonates with you, inspiring you to seek your own peaceful moments in nature. Whether you’re an artist, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking a moment of calm, may this painting invite you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Linda’s Online Gallery and Print Shop

Explore More

If you’d like to bring a piece of this serenity into your own home, visit my online gallery and print shop to browse available works. Let these captured moments of light, color, and tranquility remind you to pause, breathe, and embrace the beauty in the world around you.