Artist Nancy Merkle uses layers of paint and texture to evoke vibrant expressions of her surroundings. Her landscapes depict scenes from the Northwest and West Coast, where her family resides. I spend time absorbing the scenery, the air, the light, and the natural beauty of the region, says Nancy. Working intuitively, she portrays the world not as it is but as she wishes it to be. Nancy works in her cozy and modest home studio, which, though tiny in size, provides her with a sanctuary to freely channel her creativity. When not painting, she enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, often taking reference photographs to use as inspiration for her art.