Missy Monson finds inspiration all around, including by way of literary works. Photo: AnnaKo Photo
Excelsior painter Missy Monson has done what some hobbyists can only dream of: turn a relaxing pastime into a business.
Monson took her first step into the professional world in 2014 with a solo exhibit at a friend’s shop, which would become Excelsior’s Golden Rule Gallery, 350 Water St. Prior, she used painting as a way to relax and engage her creative mind as a stay-at-home mom of her two children.
Though her first exhibit was filled with bright, bold colors, Monson gradually settled into a gentle, nature-centric aesthetic she hopes is recognizable as her own. “My landscapes feel like nostalgic, romantic places painted in a soft Impressionistic way; my still lifes and florals feel a little more serious and slightly moody,” she says.
The artist’s Green Gables (oil on canvas) captures the enchanting essence of a site synonymous with literary nostalgia and natural beauty. The use of warm, inviting colors and familiarity preserves the charm of this imagery. Artist: Missy Monson
Monson works with acrylics, oils and the occasional gold leaf or oil pastel textures to capture her tranquil landscapes, rosy florals and light abstracts, many of which draw inspiration from locations around the Lake Minnetonka and Excelsior areas.
The artist also often draws inspiration from literary works, like the poetry of Lord Byron, Mary Oliver and Shakespeare. One piece captures E. E. Cummings’ i carry your heart with me in vibrant sunset shades to represent different forms of love. The piece was purchased as a gift for a woman’s birthday, and Monson had the pleasure of delivering it to her. “That was a really special story for me, that it had so much meaning,” Monson says.
As part of her Historical Collection, Wuthering Heights presents a lovely nod to England’s West Yorkshire moors, and there are other examples of inspired works on the website, where there are paintings that reference Anne of Green Gables, East of Eden and From Here to Eternity.
Artist: Missy Monson
Monson also accepts commissions, which are primarily abstracts, to accentuate one’s home or create a statement piece for a business. Though much of her work can be found around the area, displayed in homes or for sale through prints at places like Golden Rule Gallery and her gallery at 202 Water St. Suite 204, Excelsior, Monson has created work for clients throughout the country.
For those interested in taking their turn at an easel, Monson believes that anyone can paint and can have the opportunity to do so during one of her painting classes, held during summer months on her back patio or at local businesses, including the historic DeGroodt House in Excelsior, in the colder months. Through smaller sessions—which quickly sell out!—she guides emerging artists through simple but beautiful painting exercises. “I just feel like it’s fun, and you almost forget what you’re doing because people get lost in their painting. And I think it’s just relaxing. I have music on. If it’s an evening class, I’ll have wine. It’s a whole environment,” Monson says.
Missy Monson Art
Instagram: @missymonsonart
