A paintbrush or lump of clay in the hands of Arizona artist Ed Mell becomes transcendent. What his eyes see often becomes transformed at his hand. Puffy clouds, muted purple mountains framed by a peach halo, as the sun slips behind them, become infused with vibrant, electric energy. Forms and colors take on dazzling, brilliant hues and shades. Edges—exact and angular—are honed to razor sharpness. Colors pop. Small plants become omnipresent with captivating clarity, while their surroundings recede.

Ed Mell

Vast Expanse
Oil
30″ x 60″
“I was trying to convey the power and overall glow of sunset on the open desert on the high plateau.”

Ed Mell

Kaibito Desert
Oil
40″ x 50″
“I love the area between Kaibito and Page, Arizona. Great formations. Strength in color.”