Darlene Riel is a California native who lives and works in Davis California with her husband Jeff and son Trevor. As the manager of a teaching facility in the School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis, Darlene works a hectic schedule in a clinical environment. As such her photography has provided her with an opportunity to express her creative side and share her love of travel with others. Darlene noted that “I began to give cards and prints to relatives and friends as gifts, and many of my friends encouraged me to expand my hobby to a boutique business”.
Darlene travels extensively and enjoys taking the back roads to smaller towns and villages. These featured images were taken in Iceland, France, Ireland, Italy, Croatia and Slovenia. “I love the towns and landscapes of old Europe” Darlene states, “I am attracted to the patinas of old stone structures, cobbled streets and faded wooden buildings”. Darlene’s works are recognized for their symmetry, balance, pattern and vibrant color. “Rather than big sweeping landscapes I prefer to look for more intimate images, one that draws your eye to an interesting focal point or a dramatic splash of color”. Darlene has shown her works in regional art shows and charity venues. Many of her cards and prints are available at Bower Bird in Davis, California.