A look into the art of Jessel Miller is like a look out of a window on the French countryside. Whether it is France or her native Canada or California, where she now resides, Miller has the ability to bring out the feeling of home in her work.   

Home plays a more significant role in Jessel Miller’s life than most artists. With the help of her son, Ryan, Miller runs the largest art gallery in Napa Valley—a collection of her works—all from her home.

“My gallery is my home,” Miller says warmly of her art space. “It is filled with comfortable overstuffed furniture, healthy treats, hot cider and a 100 years old building with great bones! My son Ryan and I hope to surround our guests with gentle support in finding the perfect image to add serenity to their living environment.”

And the art has the feel of a subtler watercolor version of Jack Vettriano, capturing that moment in the story where the beginning and ending are easy to grasp or—even better—create. There is a feeling of 1950’s advertising with its dreaminess and allure, even if the subject is a woman on her own or rolling hills surrounding the valley.

“I have lived in the Napa Valley for 25 years and everyday is exquisite. The light on the hills at dusk is reminiscent of impressionistic paintings and the views seem like heaven on earth. All my figurative paintings include Napa in the background.”

The backgrounds make for exceptional artistry that has also graced the covers of award-winning children’s books, of course without the women who famously fill Jessel Miller’s frame. And what if those women could speak, what would they say?

“They would whisper words like peace, surrender to the moment, relax, slow down and take time to touch each moment with love.” Message received.

by Loic Renin