About the Artist
ARTIST STATEMENT:
I am deeply moved by the quiet grandeur of the natural world, especially in familiar places caught at just the right moment in time. I find the landscape to carry a resonance within shifting light and the subtle interplay between stillness and motion which begs to be painted.
Born and raised in Western Michigan, the landscapes of the Great Lakes region have profoundly shaped the emotional and visual language I explore in my work. I aim to capture more than just what the eye sees, but rather my emotional experience in that moment. These paintings are reflections of a time when I felt a deep connection to nature and its impact on my place in the world.
My painting process balances between intuitive spontaneity and intentional contemplation. Some pieces unfold swiftly while others require slow, steady brushwork. I paint exclusively in oil, most often preferring the rigid nature and smooth texture of hardboard. Embracing the richness of pigment, subtle texture, and a reserved application of oil paint has allowed me to cultivate a style which conveys depth, atmosphere, and emotion.
Whether in sweeping landscapes or intimate scenes, I invite viewers to pause and reconnect with nature’s quiet beauty. Painting, for me, is a practice of mindfulness: each brushstroke is a moment of presence, an invitation to slow down and witness.
My hope is that you experience the same sense of wonder, reverence, and belonging I feel when immersed in the world around me. Thank you for joining me on this journey.
BIOGRAPHY:
Born in West Michigan, Marella Morris began selling her work professionally at the age of 17 while also employed with a reputable art gallery and custom frame shop. Marella has continued to evolve as an artist, finding growth, inspiration, and connection in the community and landscape around her. Her work can be found in private and corporate collections both nationally and internationally. Marella currently resides in West Michigan with her husband and two young children.
HONORS/AWARDS:
1st Place Award, “Plein Air Weekend”, Glen Arbor Arts Center, Glen Arbor MI, 2025
Best In Show, “Rockford Art in the Park”, Rockford MI, 2024
1st Place Award, “Ray and Nancy Loeschner Art Competition”, Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids MI, 2023
Finalist, “Art64”, Milwaukee WI, 2023, 2024
Finalist, “Ray and Nancy Loeschner Art Competition”, Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids MI 2022, 2021, 2020
PUBLICATIONS:
“Fine Home for Fine Art”, Grand Rapids Magazine, 2012
“Pair of Young Artists Paints Second Nature”, Grand Rapids Press, 2007
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS:
“Old Town Art Fair”, Chicago IL, 2025
“Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff”, St Joseph MI, 2025
“Charlevoix Waterfront Art Fair”, Charlevoix, 2025
“Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair”, Ann Arbor MI, 2024-2025
“Grand Haven Art Festival”, Grand Haven MI, 2024-2025
“Handworks”, Ada MI, 2021-2025
“The Grand Art Show”, Amway Grand Hotel, 2016
“Small Wonders Holiday Show”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2012
“Autumn Show”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2011
“Vivid”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2011
“ArtHop”, Kalamazoo MI, 2010
“Create”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2010
“Inspired By Nature”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2010
“Summer Reflections”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2009
“ArtPrize”, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 2009
“Small Wonders Holiday Show”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2009
“In Good Company”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2008
“Small Wonders Holiday Show”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2008
“The Painters Palette”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2007
“Sunlight and Shadows”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2007
“Wild About Art”, Grand Gallery Amway Hotel, 2006
“The Labor Day Show”, Grand Gallery Ada, 2006
“Small Works”, Grand Gallery Amway Hotel, 2005
SELECTED COLLECTIONS:
Metro Health Hospital, Wyoming MI
Waterworks, Aspen CO
Medallion Management, Kalamazoo MI
Silver Star Veterans Facility, Battle Creek MI
