Sanctuary. Oil on linen by Mary Ellen Brantley. All Rights Reserved. My art reflects my love of nature and people. When painting nature I prefer to work en Plein Aire and then return to my studio and interpret what I have seen in the field. I strive to capture the beauty of nature as reflected in the light at various times of day. Most of my nature paintings include waters. I am haunted by water. It feeds my soul and brings a sense of peace.