Meet Marla
“I try to find the quiet spots with hidden beauties, a richly textured path, a trickling stream of light. Those are the subjects that deeply resonate with me and connect me to the landscape. I hope that you find a connection through my work too!”
A prolific painter and teacher, Marla’s artwork and workshops are nationally sought after. Her work has been represented throughout the country and hse has been an educator for over 30 years. Contributing to many art publications such as Pastel Journal, she is a signature PSA member and an IAPS Master Circle Recipient.
Marla graduated from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Ca. She worked as a commercial illustrator for 25 years. After moving to Oregon in 1993, she was inspired by the beauty of the Willamette Valley and began painting landscapes that blend realism and abstraction that convey a sense of calm and balance.
-Marla

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Lessons Available
On this site you will find a wealth of resources to help you take your journey as an artist to the next level. I am always adding new content so be sure to sign up for my free minilessons and be the first to find out!

I guide you through different aspects of painting and art that will get you comfortable with using pastels. You’ll gain confidence to attempt work that you might have otherwise been timid about.


My Online Workshops have been carefully crafted to help you focus on and learn specific areas of painting in a structured, easy to follow, fun and rewarding format. I have many new workshops in the works, so stay tuned!

Looking to take the next step and receive feedback and guidance on your artistic process? The opportunity to gain reflection on your work from the perspective of a professional artist who has spent most of her life as a painter and teacher is not one to be missed.

Passion for Painting
While she makes her home in Portland, Oregon, Marla travels extensively throughout the United States teaching painting workshops and jurying shows. Marla is a sought after workshop instructor, adept at helping students develop an individual painting style. Marlas’s approach to painting reflects both the formal art education she received at Art Center College of Design and the years of experience that can only be gained from behind the easel. “It’s a great honor to work with students to pass on some of the knowledge I’ve gained from my many great instructors and my own discoveries as a painter. I’m a true believer that the fundamentals of painting combined with our individual voices make painting a uniquely satisfying endeavor. As a teacher, I provide a strong base of the fundamentals of painting to guide every student in reaching their unique artistic intentions in a supportive, nurturing and creative environment.”
-Marla
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