Welcome
Born in Lebanon to Swiss parents, Marlyse Ruess has always felt the pull of the exotic and interesting, both in her life and art. Growing up on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean, she recalls the salty sea air, tinged with a hint of the citrus groves that grew nearby, as well as the souks (marketplaces) filled with colorful spices and merchandise. These vibrant colors of the Mediterranean are the hallmarks of Marlyse’s art, from her painterly brushwork, to her lush still lifes, evocative seascapes and glimpses in to time and place, suggesting a reverie one often searches for, but hardly ever finds.
As the artist says, “I feel as though I was born under a wandering star. Raised in Lebanon and educated in Switzerland, I made my way to Africa, living and marrying in Monrovia, before I made my way to the States, relocating to Southern California in 1984. I’m always inspired by my surroundings, painting what I see and evoking tranquility on canvas – a world filled with color and light, shadows and reflections. Take a moment to explore the scenes I have created – I hope to bring the viewer insight into the mystery of what can be seen and what is left out.”
"My landscapes, florals and figures evoke a space inspired by strong Mediterranean sunshine."
