Marilyn Simandle's artwork reflects locales from around the world. As an avid traveler with a special interest in the subtlety of light, she has been inspired by many spectacular destinations, ranging from Italy's Amalfi Coast to the lush gardens of Charleston, South Carolina.

An artist since the age of six, Marilyn Simandle has dedicated her life to her craft. Growing up with an artist mother, she found the encouragement neccessary to pursue her passion for painting. Since her early start with her mother in adult education classes, she has dedicated her life as a painter by furthering her abilities through education. A graduate of San Jose State University, Simandle has never stopped learning. She is always open to new ideas and techniques. Beginning her career as a skilled watercolorist and member of the American Watercolor Society since the 1970's, she later discovered her abilities as an oil painter in the 1990's, winning first place in a regional show for Oil Painters of America in 1997.

Always passionate about the outdoors, she has found her place among the Plein-Air Painters of America. She also serves as a judge for shows and festivals.

Over the past thirty years, Simandle has exhibited more than sixty-five one woman shows. She won the People's Choice Award at the Oil Painters of America National Show in 1998.

She has also written a book, Capturing Light in Watercolor, which was published in 1997.