Sharon Marks has a new show of  landscape and still life watercolors at the law offices of Gaw Van Male in Napa.

Marks, born and raised in California, grew up with an affinity for nature, which is reflected in her paintings of mountains, the shore, and the rolling hills of Northern California. A longtime Napa Valley resident, Marks worked as an emergency room nurse and is now a full-time supervisor of a Vallejo hospital. “I paint for the joy of it,” Marks said. “I’m able to relax and get away from the stress in my work.”

She endured another stressful situation during the past three years when her son was diagnosed with cancer. He has since recovered, and together they have become active in Lance Armstrong’s Livestrong Challenge, which supports other cancer patients and their families.

As a testament to her son’s determination and in support of the Livestrong Challenge, Marks will donate proceeds from the sale of her painting “Courage” toward cancer research and support.

“Threaded throughout my paintings is a sense of our kinship with the inspiration and understanding that arises when time slows down,” Marks said. “Bringing attention to the present moment helps to nurture the creative life. Painting offers me the quiet opportunity to rebalance.”

All of her paintings are available in limited edition giclée prints. The exhibit can be viewed daily during business hours at the offices of Gaw Van Male, 1000 Main St, third floor, Napa. For information regarding Marks’ paintings, call 252-9000 or e-mail info@gawvanmale.com.