Donna Shortt’s colorful impressionist landscapes feel cozy, like a Sunday afternoon. Sunlight peaks between branches from shaded forest thickets, rivers flow under open skies, houses bathe in rich afternoon rays, and light glows from windows in autumn. A theme of seasonality runs through the exhibition. Flowers bloom; snow falls. Monuments are strung with holiday lights, giving a feeling of nostalgia. The beautiful yet intricate details of the painting Early Light, remind the viewer of when George Bailey realized that his blessings were in the simplicity of his everyday life.

Looking at the different landscapes the artist has so brilliantly painted, you can envision the American countryside, a touch of Ireland, and the French countryside, while still seeing the influence of Indiana’s plains. The softened landscapes transport me into timeless spaces and feelings of peace and serenity. The paintings and pastels recall small moments of stillness in a fast and chaotic world. You can almost hear the brook babbling on your morning walk or smell the flowers as you stroll past purple blossoms.

Based in Indianapolis, Shortt is an accomplished oil plein air painter, still life artist, and traveler. Her warm and inviting work has a luminous and atmospheric quality that is almost dream-like, making it easy to imagine oneself in the scenery. Her paintings are comforting and lush, with fuzzy forms that melt at the edges. This comes through most clearly in the two abstract works included in the show. These ethereal pieces showcase Shortt’s masterful grasp of color while recalling the atmosphere of the more realistic landscapes. Pastel strokes bump into each other, overlap, and combine to create the afterglow of the forest in nearly fluorescent color schemes.

Taken together, On This Earth invites us to stop and appreciate places and people close to us. Take a moment; observe the world. Be inspired by the wonders of this earth.

On This Earth is currently on display in the Speck Gallery for the month of March. Browse the full show on our online gallery page.