Marilyn McNish is a contemporary realist artist known for her vibrant, expressive paintings that celebrate beauty and character of the natural world. Working primarily in acrylic, she creates richly colored compositions drawn from photographs and personal memory, capturing moments of stillness, movement, and quiet emotion. Her work spans a diverse range of subjects, including landscapes, wildlife, prairie vistas, water, trees, flowers, and man-made structures, reflecting both her curiosity and versatility as an artist. Marilyn’s paintings are recognized for their strong sense of place and atmosphere, often evoking calm, connection, and deep appreciation for environments she portrays. Her art has been displayed in corporate and government offices, and she regularly participates in art shows and galleries. Alongside her studio practice, Marilyn is passionate about sharing her love of art and teaches art lessons to young enthusiasts in her home and in schools. Her continually evolving body of work demonstrates a commitment to exploring new subjects while remaining rooted in realism and thoughtful observation.
This painting is called “Edge of Control.” This is an image in my mind when we visited the black beach in Monterrico, Guatemala. We had just arrived, and as I ran towards the ocean, a biplane was following the shoreline, and I instantly in awe at this wondrous machine coming towards me.A friend of the family had taken several pictures of his trip to Banff and Lake Moraine. I asked him if I could paint one of his photos. He was very happy and honoured that I felt one of his photographs painting worthy. I loved this scene because of all the colours of the canoes, their positions within a beautiful mountainous and lake scene. This painting is simply called Lake Moraine.This painting is called “Her Commitment.” This painting is my daughter-in-law as she graduated from her rigorous 26-week training program.I painted this image from a photo I had taken from my bedroom window. I called it the “Daunting Guardian” because I felt is as an intimidating force that is a protector and predator.I wanted to create a painting that portrayed all the different colours of wolves. White, black, red, grey and silver. As they all have different symbolisms. For example, white wolves are an omen of good luck and prosperity. A black wolf could symbolize death, devastation and evil power. As I placed the wolves in a forest scene, a six-year-old neighbour girl immediately observed that it needed either a sun or moon in the painting. I put a moon. When I needed a name, I sought out my six-year-old grandson and asked for his thoughts. He commented that I looked like an ambush. Thus, a Moonlight Ambush became a suitable name for this painting.While visiting the local zoo in San Jose, Costa Rica, I came upon this beautiful rooster. His colours and stance appeared most regal. Therefore, a suitable name for this grand fellow was manifested as “Sir Crows – A – Lot.The location of this beautiful autumn scene is within walking distance of my home. It continues to be a favourite. This particular painting was commissioned to me by a close family friend who lives in Texas and sorely misses Canada’s autumns. Thus the name, “Canada in Autumn.”With funding from the Artist in the School program through the Manitoba Art Council and in partnership with the Duke of Marlborough school, this special project/painting was created by students in Churchill, Manitoba, under my direction. Approximately ten students were to paint one painting. Together. Polyptych art is creating art on four or more panels. In this situation, there were twenty-eight canvases. The project requested by the principal, teachers and students was to capture Churchill’s history – the grain terminal, Anglican church, a complex that holds a hospital, municipal office, hockey rink, school and train. Churchill’s animals – Beluga whale, polar bear, Arctic fox, eagle. The sunsets, the Hudson Bay, one-sided trees and fishing. The four indigenous tribes – Inuit – Inukshuk, Dene – Drum, Metis – Metis Sash and Cree – Tipi.
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Which ’hood are you in?
My artwork is created in my home studio in Manigotagan, Manitoba, a quiet residential and tourist community nestled along the Manigotagan River. My home sits atop its own peninsula, surrounded by water, forest, and an abundance of wildlife. This peaceful, scenic setting – known for its ever-changing light and remarkable sunsets – provides constant inspiration for my art. Immersed in nature and solitude, Marilyn finds the environment ideal for creative reflection, allowing the landscapes, colours, and rhythms of river life to naturally shape her paintings.
What do you do?
Using acrylic paint, canvas, and brush, I create realistic artwork that reflects the beauty and wonder of the world around us. Through expressive brushstrokes and careful observation, I aim to capture not just what is seen, but what is felt. My intention is for each piece to hold its own essence – inviting the viewer to imagine the story within the scene, to relate to it personally and feel a quiet bond with the subject and the moment it represents.
What are you currently working on?
I am preparing to do several airplane and helicopter paintings that will portray an aviation company on land and in the sky.
Emilea Semancik was born in North Vancouver. Emilea has always always wanted to work as a freelance writer and currently writes for the Vancouver Guardian. Taking influence from journalism culture surrounding the great and late Anthony Bourdain, she is a recipe author working towards publishing her own series of books. You can find her food blog on Instagram: @ancestral.foods
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