Michelle LaRae      paintings to escape into...

24x30 oil on canvas

I based this painting on a photo I took at the San Juan Capistrano mission in Southern California.

This is a scene from the central courtyard with it's beautiful fountain.  I wanted to capture all of the signs of Spring that were flying around me -- from the butterflies to the beautifully blooming water lilies.

11x14 oil on canvas

I based this painting on a photo I took at the San Juan Capistrano mission in Southern California.  It was an amazing coincidence to have taken this photo at the precise moment the sun was hitting the fountain.

I added the hazy sunlight streaming down for a special effect.  But, the sunlight was definitely illuminating the water on the fountain when I took the photo.

24x30 oil on canvas
SOLD

It was an honor to have been selected to paint this year’s Collectors’ T-Shirt for In-N-Out Burger. We worked together to create a scene that captures the post World War II era, and celebrates America’s Military.

Being the granddaughter of a Lt. Colonel in the Marines, I could not have been more honored. My grandfather served in the Marines over the course of three wars, earning the bronze star for his heroic efforts in World War II. I know he would be proud of In-N-Out Burger’s and my efforts to show our support for America’s troops today.

As a classic car artist, I loved re-creating this era. My husband and I are regular classic car show attendees. We own a 1934 Plymouth, which we take to many shows. This experience truly lent itself to creating this painting – allowing me to take in the current trends in restored cars and produce a scene heavily influenced by my own taste in classic cars.

24x30 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a photograph taken in Dana Point, CA by Robin Gray.

It captures the perfect Southern California sunset with the sun just about to dip below the horizon.  The clouds are taking their places in the dance to capture the rose hues cast by the sunset.

…The perfect end to the perfect day…

Giclee prices

• 11x14 giclee

  $95

  

18x36 oil on canvas

This magical scene of Laguna Beach has been captured by artists for years.

I decided to challenge myself to paint this scene at night for anyone who has seen this scene during a romantic, evening stroll.

Giclee prices

• 14x28 giclee

  $195

  

• 18x36 giclee

  $295

  

11x14 oil on canvas

As I was waiting for the right moment to photograph this sunset, I noticed several people around me stopping to watch the sunset.

It was then that I realized that a sunset gives people the excuse to stop their busy lives, and appreciate nature’s beauty.

11x14 oil on canvas

As I was waiting for the right moment to photograph this sunset, I noticed several people around me stopping to watch the sunset.

It was then that I realized that a sunset gives people the excuse to stop their busy lives, and appreciate nature’s beauty.

11x14 oil on canvas

I based this painting on a photo I took when walking in Laguna Beach with a friend.   This lifeguard tower is a local landmark that has been painted by many artists.

The painting portrays a young girl walking along the boardwalk.  I wonder what she is thinking?  Her face doesn't seem to match the bright, beautiful day.

18x36 oil on canvas
SOLD

I’ve always loved the Balboa Fun Zone.  Having lived on the peninsula when I was younger, my brother and I would visit the Fun Zone as often as we could.  Needless to say, I jumped at the opportunity to do this painting.

Giclee prices

• 8x16 giclee

  $95

  

• 14x28 giclee

  $195

  

16x20 oil on canvas

A Ferris wheel always brings out the child in us.

This Ferris wheel is in the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach, CA.   It has been a local landmark since 1935.

11x14 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a photograph taken by Paul Hoglund in the Provence region of France.

The simplicity of the subject pared with the details of the stonework result in a striking piece.

Giclee prices

• 11x14 giclee on paper

  $45

  

• 11x14 giclee on canvas

  $95

  

24x30 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a photograph taken at the Kylemoor Abby in the Connemara region of Ireland.

It captures the essence of Ireland, with its green hues and peaceful setting.

Giclee prices

• 20x25 giclee

  $195

  

24x30 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a photograph I took in San Gimignano, a walled city in the Tuscany region of Italy.  I loved the old world setting.  San Gimignano dates back to the 10^th century, and is known for its several towers.

The ancient city was also used as a filming location for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Tea with Mussolini”.

Giclee prices

• 11x14 giclee

  $95

  

• 20x25 giclee

  $195

  

24x30 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a Tuscan villa and winery that I visited while in Italy.

Immediately after walking through the front door, I was struck with this spectacular site.  It was the perfect time of day with the sunlight streaming down, allowing the plants to cast their shadows on the wall below.

Giclee prices

• 11x14 giclee

  $95

  

• 20x25 giclee

  $195

  

24x30 oil on canvas

This painting was inspired by a photograph I took when I visited Sorrento and the Isle of Capri.  These striking buildings comprise the Excelsior Vittoria Hotel, which was built between 1834 and 1880.

Giclee prices

• 11x14 giclee

  $95

  

• 20x25 giclee

  $195