Artist Focus: Naomi Brown

Arizona painter Naomi Brown has no shortage of reference material around her home in the Sonoran Desert, especially when the weather reveals exceptional light and atmosphere.

Tucson Storm, oil on canvas, 24 x 30 in.

“The desert heat this summer has brought a few monsoon storms already to my home/studio this summer. This is always a welcome desert experience,” she says. “During the monsoon season, the clouds start to roll in most afternoons to the southeast of my studio. It’s always exciting to know there is a chance for some rain to come our way, however, most of the time all we get is a haboob—a dust storm. The name sounds funny, but can be all too serious at times with its very high winds and its wall of dust coming towards you. A good dust storm can bring some amazing cloud formations and much needed rain after it passes by.”

Tucson Storm, oil on canvas, 30 x 24 in.

Brown continues, “These beautiful skies after a haboob are a great inspiration for my work. I have captured many gorgeous skies that help me with reference when painting them in. The smell of desert rain always puts me in a good mood, because I know how much our desert needs the moisture to help its fauna and animals survive. I love and appreciate this delicate balance in the Sonoran Desert.”

Brown's work can be seen at Settlers West Galleries in Tucson, Arizona. —