Holly L. Smith
https://www.hollylsmith.com/home
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Dahlia In Full Bloom
20“ x 20”
20“ x 20”
Artist Statement
My work focuses on the ever-changing landscapes of Maine, with particular attention to the light of early morning and late afternoon—moments I experience as both magical and fleeting. Working primarily in oil, alongside plein air watercolor studies, I explore the shifting atmosphere and subtle transformations of familiar places, especially the islands and rocky coastline.
Through layered surfaces and a palette of selected colors, I aim to capture not only the physical landscape but its emotional resonance. Influenced by both direct observation and the enduring tradition of landscape painting, my work reflects on solitude, connection, and the passage of time.
I am interested in how a place can feel, shaped by light, weather, and memory. My paintings invite viewers into quiet, contemplative spaces—moments of stillness that encourage a deeper connection to the natural world and an inward sense of place. I aspire for the viewer to experience the atmospheric magical beauty of Maine through my eyes.
My work focuses on the ever-changing landscapes of Maine, with particular attention to the light of early morning and late afternoon—moments I experience as both magical and fleeting. Working primarily in oil, alongside plein air watercolor studies, I explore the shifting atmosphere and subtle transformations of familiar places, especially the islands and rocky coastline.
Through layered surfaces and a palette of selected colors, I aim to capture not only the physical landscape but its emotional resonance. Influenced by both direct observation and the enduring tradition of landscape painting, my work reflects on solitude, connection, and the passage of time.
I am interested in how a place can feel, shaped by light, weather, and memory. My paintings invite viewers into quiet, contemplative spaces—moments of stillness that encourage a deeper connection to the natural world and an inward sense of place. I aspire for the viewer to experience the atmospheric magical beauty of Maine through my eyes.
Sparkles On The Crashing Waves
36” x 36”
36” x 36”
Ocean Sparkles
24” x 24”
24” x 24”
Running Down Wind On Penobscot Bay
36” x 24”
36” x 24”
Floral Radiance
24” x 30”
24” x 30”
Glowing Sparkles In The Rising Tide
36” x 24”
36” x 24”
Artist Bio
Holly L. Smith is a Maine native whose contemporary landscape paintings capture the magic of light and the quiet beauty of the state’s coastline. She often paints plein air on Maine islands such as Monhegan, Vinalhaven, and Eagle before refining larger works in her Rockport studio. Inspired by tidal coves, rocky shores, and shifting skies, Holly seeks to translate the energy and mood of a moment onto canvas. The mediums for her paintings have been primarily oils, watercolor and now include mix mediums.
“As an artist, I have always found inspiration in the ever-changing beauty and moods of my surroundings,” she says. “Through my work as a contemporary realist and colorist, I explore my passion for unique light and meaningful subject matter.”
Holly holds a B.S. in Art Education from the University of Southern Maine and spent over three decades teaching art and photography in Maine public schools. She continues to teach, travel, and explore the Maine coastline.
Her artwork has been featured on the cover of the LL Bean Catalog and exhibited at the Portland Art Gallery and the Lincolnville Art & Antique Gallery. Collected by buyers across the United States and United Kingdom, Holly’s paintings invite viewers to bring home a piece of timeless beauty and meaningful connection with the natural and spiritual worlds.
Holly L. Smith is a Maine native whose contemporary landscape paintings capture the magic of light and the quiet beauty of the state’s coastline. She often paints plein air on Maine islands such as Monhegan, Vinalhaven, and Eagle before refining larger works in her Rockport studio. Inspired by tidal coves, rocky shores, and shifting skies, Holly seeks to translate the energy and mood of a moment onto canvas. The mediums for her paintings have been primarily oils, watercolor and now include mix mediums.
“As an artist, I have always found inspiration in the ever-changing beauty and moods of my surroundings,” she says. “Through my work as a contemporary realist and colorist, I explore my passion for unique light and meaningful subject matter.”
Holly holds a B.S. in Art Education from the University of Southern Maine and spent over three decades teaching art and photography in Maine public schools. She continues to teach, travel, and explore the Maine coastline.
Her artwork has been featured on the cover of the LL Bean Catalog and exhibited at the Portland Art Gallery and the Lincolnville Art & Antique Gallery. Collected by buyers across the United States and United Kingdom, Holly’s paintings invite viewers to bring home a piece of timeless beauty and meaningful connection with the natural and spiritual worlds.
Hydrangea At Marshall Point
16” x 12”
16” x 12”
A New Day Begins In Owls Head
30” x 40”
30” x 40”
Rocky Shores At Eagle Island
40” x 30”
40” x 30”
Morning Light On Fish Beach
20” x 20”
20” x 20”
Lifting Clouds Over Eagle Island
40” x 30”
40” x 30”
Contemporary Landscape Painter, Rockport, Maine
[email protected] |Website: hollylsmith.com | Instagram: @hollylsmithart Facebook: Holly L. Smith – Contemporary Fine Art
Profile
Contemporary landscape painter focused on capturing the shifting light and atmospheric qualities of Maine’s coastal environments. Works primarily in oil, complemented by plein air watercolor studies. Known for translating the emotional resonance of place through layered surfaces and a restrained palette.
Education
B.S., University of Southern Maine, Gorham, Maine — 1976
Continuing studies: workshops and independent study focused on plein air and contemporary landscape practices.
Professional Experience
Full-Time Studio Artist, Rockport, Maine — 1976–Present
Plein air painting across Maine (Monhegan, Vinalhaven, Eagle Island); studio work developed from field studies.
Former Elementary & High School Art Teacher (31 years); current adult education watercolor instructor.
Exhibitions & Representation
Portland Art Gallery, Portland, Maine — Featured Artist (2018–2026)
Lincolnville Art & Antique Gallery, Lincolnville, Maine — Representation (2015–2026)
Port Clyde Art Gallery, Maine — Representation (2012–2014)
River Arts, Damariscotta, Maine — Group Exhibitions (2014–2015)
357 Fine Art Gallery, Rockland, Maine — Group Exhibitions (2014–2016)
Community Involvement
Habitat for Humanity Plein Air Paint-Out (donations) — 2022–2025
Children’s Museum (painting donations) — 2018–2026
Collections
Private collections throughout the United States and the United Kingdom, including Linda Bean / L.L.Bean the First National Bank of Damariscotta.
Publications & Features
L.L.Bean catalog (cover); Off The Wall Magazine; Tourist Magazine of Maine (cover).
[email protected] |Website: hollylsmith.com | Instagram: @hollylsmithart Facebook: Holly L. Smith – Contemporary Fine Art
Profile
Contemporary landscape painter focused on capturing the shifting light and atmospheric qualities of Maine’s coastal environments. Works primarily in oil, complemented by plein air watercolor studies. Known for translating the emotional resonance of place through layered surfaces and a restrained palette.
Education
B.S., University of Southern Maine, Gorham, Maine — 1976
Continuing studies: workshops and independent study focused on plein air and contemporary landscape practices.
Professional Experience
Full-Time Studio Artist, Rockport, Maine — 1976–Present
Plein air painting across Maine (Monhegan, Vinalhaven, Eagle Island); studio work developed from field studies.
Former Elementary & High School Art Teacher (31 years); current adult education watercolor instructor.
Exhibitions & Representation
Portland Art Gallery, Portland, Maine — Featured Artist (2018–2026)
Lincolnville Art & Antique Gallery, Lincolnville, Maine — Representation (2015–2026)
Port Clyde Art Gallery, Maine — Representation (2012–2014)
River Arts, Damariscotta, Maine — Group Exhibitions (2014–2015)
357 Fine Art Gallery, Rockland, Maine — Group Exhibitions (2014–2016)
Community Involvement
Habitat for Humanity Plein Air Paint-Out (donations) — 2022–2025
Children’s Museum (painting donations) — 2018–2026
Collections
Private collections throughout the United States and the United Kingdom, including Linda Bean / L.L.Bean the First National Bank of Damariscotta.
Publications & Features
L.L.Bean catalog (cover); Off The Wall Magazine; Tourist Magazine of Maine (cover).
A Morning Sail
40” x 36”
40” x 36”
Holly L. Smith
https://www.hollylsmith.com/home
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