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Full Artist Bio

Michael Fratrich has worked as a professional artist since 1983, when he sold his first oil painting of a rural farm scene at the age of fifteen during an exhibit in Northern New Jersey. A self taught artist, Fratrich developed his style of representing rural and vintage American subjects at an early age. His distinctive artistic renderings have evolved from an appreciation of his family’s farm country roots in addition to his experience with the renowned artist and writer Eric Sloane. “I am very fortunate to have known him as a child, and to have studied his work during my own artistic coming of age,” Fratrich states. “To this day I still apply a great deal of his instruction to my own artistic philosophy.”

Fratrich, experienced first hand the tragedy of 9/11 as they were residing in Manhattan at the time. It was that event, coupled with the calling Michael felt to return to the rural scene that prompted him and his wife to settle their businesses and relocate permanently to Vermont. Michael has worked solely as a professional painter during the years since, painting every day in his Manchester studio.

Although Fratrich’s ability allows him to cover limitless subjects in oils, he prefers that his renderings follow his life’s passion for the Early American rural scene. His uncanny ability to capture the mood of our Vintage American Era remains the trademark endemic to his body of work. Along with sanctioning gallery viewers’ passage back in time to revisit worthy ideals, the magic of Fratrich’s renderings is that they may be emotively experienced. They serve as a vehicle for travel along the viewers own mental highways of exploration …or recollection. Simultaneously, they sponsor a pride in the laudable subjects of our American ancestry. Whether it is a farmscape painting that allows us to momentarily identify with the worthiness of the Early American Farmer, his purposeful living, and the beauty therein – or a covered bridge painting sponsoring our appreciation of the ingenuity and perseverance of the Early American Bridge Builder, fabricating a beautifully enduring purposeful structure of only basic materials, without the use of one power tool. Fratrich’s paintings enunciate the essence of an earlier era, and celebrate the endurance of those ideals to this day.

“What I am doing through my paintings,” Fratrich claims, “is recording the underlying American Spirit. I have moved to Vermont from a much more gentrified area of the country where the landscape is all but void of that sense, and I am filled with wonder every day at how much Vermont bubbles over with enduring impressions of the American Spirit. Whether I am driving past an old covered bridge, or an Early American Farmstead, gazing out of my studio window at the ancient apple orchard, or simply comparing old hand crafted wooden buckets at a local Vermont antique shop, I am bearing witness to the everlasting American Spirit that forged them.” Fratrich concluded, “To live the lifestyle of a professional artist recording in oils the American Spirit is to have found true happiness. I have found that happiness here in Vermont.”

SIMPATICO

Michael Fratrich
Price:$
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

Michael’s magical colors once again attract collectors as they drive by the front of Tilting at Windmills Gallery.
Michael’s pallet is forever delightful and subjects filled with Vermont charm. The stones in the field gently direct your eyes to the subject on the hill. And my oh my …..a
lavender roof!

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AUTUMN COLORS

Michael Fratrich
Price:$10500
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 30″ x 60″ 

Fine detail in this rendering of an autumnal New England farm, from the stones on the fence to the fall foliage through the far barn window!

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FAR GREEN COUNTRY

Michael Fratrich
Price:$13500
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

This painting evokes the peace and respite implied by the Tolkien quote is it named after.

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INDIAN SUMMER

Michael Fratrich
Price:$9200
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 60″ 

This farm boasts a late autumnal palette, and you can almost smell the wind through the waving grass and a whiff of ozone from the approaching storm…

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WINTER STARS

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size:36″ x 48″ 

Stars seem to stand out in brighter relief in the winter sky. Night descends on this peaceful, cozy farm.

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GOLDEN MOMENT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 12″ x 18″ 

That fleeting moment when the sunset is gold fades quickly, but is captured for posterity in this work.

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THE SUNS RADIANT RETREAT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 12″ x 18″ 

Warm sunset light floods this snowbound farm.

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APPLE TREE FARM

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 12″ x 18″ 

A red roofed barn and feathery meadow artwork in a smaller format for those cozy nook walls!

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NORTH STAR NIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

The warm light from the farmhouse window beckons like the North Star on a cold evening.

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HER-STORY

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 24″ x 12″ 

Her story is just beginning, but she has some rockin’ shoes for the journey!

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GRATITUDE

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

The most dynamic Fratrich minimalist artwork yet, this vivid palette will brighten the mood in any room!

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ALWAYS AND FOREVER

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 36″ 

Spring time sunset on the minimalist farm…

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UNDER NIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

A crescent moon rises in an amethyst sky in this minimalist work…

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LAST LIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

Spring time tones abound in this minimalist work, but the smoke from the chimney shows its still chilly at sunset!

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A MOMENT OF REFLECTION

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 40″ 

A video accompanies the creation of this impressionistic piece. Michael is forever venturing into different expressions and this piece is one of the best examples of his talent and courage to take on new styles! He is an amazingly versatile artist. Tilting is fortunate share such fine art!!!

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SINCE DAY ONE

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

You simply should see this stunning sunrise in person to appreciate all the wonderful details!

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BOVINIA VERMONT

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 in. x 40 in.

For those of you seeking a larger homespun painting, Michael barely completed this for his show. Plus the added delight is you are introduced to
Bovinia, Vermont!!! A very special place……in Michael’s mind and heart.

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77th Heaven

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 in. x 30 in.

Michael’s cows are very loved and enjoyed. They fill your mind with contentment.

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THE GOOD LIFE

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

A simplistic example of the serenity of the farm life. One apple left on the tree and peace prevails. Isn’t that how everyone feels when they come to Vermont?

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QUINTESSENTIAL VERMONT

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

Michael’s talent has led him down many avenues of expression but this one is ever so representational of Vermont and the villages therein. He has gathered many favorite spots throughout the state to come up with this quintessential village. One feels like you could just wander down the hill and be in it. A spectacular piece to show the extremes of Michael’s capabilities. He is featuring it and many more at his show at Tilting at Windmills Gallery on Saturday, February 19th, 2022. He will be in the gallery from 11am to 5pm for your convenience to meet and chat with. Learn what he does to come up with such a spectacular variety and colors. Hope to see you then.

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LIFESTYLE CHOICE

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

Michael’s Minimal Paintings have been exceedingly successful for the decor and delight of many collectors. How Michael comes up with all these different expressions…….one can only wonder!

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UNITY

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″

Michael has chosen this piece to be his favorite. It ended exactly how he wanted it to with the exact colors and feel he sought. Every once in awhile an artist really connects to his piece in every way,

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GOOD NIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold/strong>
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

Michael’s Minimal Paintings have been exceedingly successful for the decor and delight of many collectors. How Michael comes up with all these different expressions…….one can only wonder!

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OLD FRIENDS

Michael Fratrich
Price:/strong>
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 40″ 

This old barn has shared many full moons and you can even see through the slats on the back wall the light cast from this moon.

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FINAL FLOURISH

Michael Fratrich
Price:/strong>
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 34″ x 45″ 

Have you seen this color in the sky? It is fleeting and fabulous. Nothing is ignored for a few short seconds. Now it is captured on canvas for you to view continuously.

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THE VIBE

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

A minimal that will keep you alert and energized. It is wonderful. Who would paint a purple sky and yellow grass……? Michael!!!

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GOOD NIGHT VERMONT

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 36″ 

This piece was sold before it went on the wall. Fortunately, the buyer has let us keep if for Michael’s show February 19th, 2022. Thank you new owner.

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HOMESTEAD

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″ 

This piece came in and went out…..not gracing the walls for long before heading for its’ forever home!

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DELECTABLE

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

Michael is an artist who has FUN. He delights in doing something different. Here is a piece perfect for the home chef or the working chef. It makes you smile even before you taste your meal!

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A WESTERN ORIENT

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 43″ x 31″ 

SURPRISE. Once again Michael displays his ever growing capabilities in painting techniques, styles and subjects. The ornate designs and colors captivate all who view.

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BEHIND EVERY GREAT MAN

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 43″ x 31″ 

SURPRISE. Michael displays his ever growing capabilities in painting techniques, styles and subjects. A continuous surprise comes from Michael’s easel.

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ICON

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 15″ 

Something to remind you of Marilyn!!!

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NOCTURNE

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 34″ x 34″ 

A romantic version of a Vermont Village that will not be on the gallery wall for long. It is charming and all the lights in the houses define the village in a captivating charm.

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WINTER’S EVE

Michael Fratrich
Price:$9200
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″ 

This is another of Michael’s gems that harbor lovely feelings of winter and a cozy place inside if needed. I am a lover of stone walls and this one is a great aid to pull your eye into the subject. A perfect piece to keep you entertained for years.

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MOONLIT WANDERER

Michael Fratrich
Price:sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 36″ 

Michael’s primitive pieces have been a true hit. They are whimsical and colorful.
People are very attracted to them and they seem to find new homes swiftly.

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STARLIT SNOW

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

By popular demand another minimalistic oil by Michael Fratrich joins the gallery!

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LAST LIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

Many buildings and textures to entertain in this painting. Time is stopped and light is captured at that magical end of the day moment.

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A STARRY NIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 60″ 

This piece is spectacular in person. You will be stunned at the clarity that Michael can achieve in his scenes. The colors are captivating!

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LATE LIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: $8800
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 30″ 

A perfect addition to your home that will stop your visitors in their tracks and will stop you also, to enjoy daily!!!

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LAST CHAPTER

Michael Fratrich
Price: $SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″ 

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EASTERN POINT LIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 36″ 

A DELIGHTFUL light house with a Maxfield Parrish sky. Michael is so capable in diverse expressions. He never ceases to amaze me!

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EARLY MOON

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 36″ 

Michael’s much loved moons are portrayed in his new expression of homespun and primitive farm life. They have a quilting effect and the cows are adorable….if cows can be adorable.

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THE GOOD LIFE

Michael Fratrich
Price:$SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 36″ 

Such interest in this new style by Michael Fratrich. He has ventured into more expressions and each one is amazingly received. Goooo Michael.

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THE MOON AND I

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 24″ 

Ahhhhh. The sought after MOON paintings by Michael Fratrich. So compelling and softly lit. Such a special capturing of the feelings of a peaceful night. Who is not comforted or cheered by it!?

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END OF DAY

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 60″

This painting is the only one available in this spectacular color. It expresses a fleeting moment when the sun leaves the day behind and the moon takes over. Michael has found a most exciting presentation that captures hearts!

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NIGHT LIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: $3900
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

The simplicity of this farm scene is peaceful and serene.

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EARLY STARS

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

Early Stars tells a story of the beginning of a night without moonlight and how the stars

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PATHWAY TO PEACE

Michael Fratrich
Price: $3900
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 24″ 

Only three left from Michael’s Minimalist expression that is delightfully simple.

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CARMINE

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36″ x 48″ 

The red roofed barn is ever so popular with collectors. You will want one of your own.

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TANGO

Michael Fratrich
Price: $12,000
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 40″ x 30″ 

YES. You are still on the Michael Fratrich page. This is a completely different subject and presentation by Michael. The Tango is a very energetic piece.

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VIOLETTA

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″ 

Violetta is a lavendar and yellow expression with a very subtle charm. I personally am infatuated with Michael’s treatment of the grass and stonewall in colors and expression!

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HARMONY

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 38″ x 28″ 

This is another very Asian feeling expression from Michael’s collection and Harmony is an excellent title for it!

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AS DAYLIGHT FADES

Michael Fratrich
Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30″ x 48″ 

A very fleeting moment in time as the sunsets and the colors entertain.

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HOMESPUN

Michael Fratrich
Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 x 24 

Here is a piece Michael in one of Michael’s surprising new piece that he calls his primitive expression that is proving quite successful and desirable, as are all of his original oils!

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SCARLETTA

Michael Fratrich
Price: sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 x 60 

Here is a piece Michael has built a solid following for. Many of his stormy skies grace the walls of his loyal collectors. They are show stoppers and captivating in many, many ways. Michael is a most obliging artists. If you need a smaller version for a certain spot……he will accommodate your personal needs in order to have an original painting in your home!

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BASS HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE

Michael Fratrich
Price: $4900
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 x 24 

Do you know Maxfield Parrish? Well Michael has done a few luminous pieces that are knock outs and bring to mind Parrish’s works. They are spellbinding.

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BASS HARBOR, MA.

Michael Fratrich
Price: $6800
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 x 24 

And now from Michael……..a bit of his impressionistic style. Bass Harbor is ‘filled’ with color! You will not get bored!

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FAMILIAR GROUND

Michael Fratrich
Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 x 24 

Here is a piece Michael labels a ‘primitive painting’ that is a lovely and diverse expression by Michael.

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EVENING GOLD

Michael Fratrich
Price: $7800
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 x 36 

If yellow is your decor choice you cannot beat this original oil by Michael.

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STORMLIGHT

Michael Fratrich
Price: $8400
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 x 40 

Here is a most popular piece from Michael’s solo show. It wont last long!
May it be yours!

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SISTER MOON

Michael Fratrich
Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 24 x 36 

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LAVENDER RISE

Michael Fratrich
Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 38 in. x 48 in.

Complimentary colors and subtle values make this piece a perfect fit in all styles of decor. It is a perfect accent for any home, office or even business.

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GOOD NIGHT MOON

Michael Fratrich
Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 36 in.

Moonlight paintings by Michael are of great appeal and do not last long! They are subtle and possess warm, cozy and comforting feelings.

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A DEDICATION

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 28 in. x 13 in.

Michael Fratrich has a new treat with an strong Asian influence. Charming raw silk like texture in these two verticals. After studying Asian history and art these two pieces demonstrate Michael’s great versatility in his expression and subjects.
In China, the Crow is also Commended for its Social Behavior as young crows help their parents bring up the next brood.  The crow stands as an example of Dedication to Family and Ancestors in nature. Crow Families abound in Ukiyo-e Art.

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BIRDS AND BLOSSOMS

Michael Fratrich
Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 28 in. x 13 in.

Michael Fratrich has a new treat with an strong Asian influence. Charming raw silk like texture in these two verticals. After studying Asian history and art these two pieces demonstrate Michael’s great versatility in his expression and subjects.

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EVER GLOW

Price:$
Medium: Oil on PANEL
Size: 24 in. x 18 in.

Here is a smaller version of the very large and loved piece Golden Hour. Michael is amazing at capturing the light and color.

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LAST LIGHT

Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on PANEL
Size: 24 in. x 36 in.

Here is a wonderful feeling of the end of a beautiful day on a sweet small farm.

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RED DOORS

Price:$SOLD
Medium: Oil on PANEL
Size: 30 in. x 40 in.

A new and exciting expression by Michael. He is an ever resourceful creator of new expressions that push the edge on contemporary and traditional style. This is a bold piece to make a statement in any room.

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VERMONT STORMLIGHT

Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 60 in.

An ultra dramatic scene to set off any room with color and simplicity.

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FIELD GEM II

Price:$
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 36 in.

For those who lined up to purchase Field Gem II with a stone wall that is perfect foreground enhancement.

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GOLDEN HOUR

Price:
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 70 in.

Michael Fratrich treats us to another incredibly colored sky as a backdrop to a comforting – homey piece.

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FINAL CURTAIN

Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 60 in.

That unique time of day where unbelievable colors appear for fractions of time to delight our transition to night. Michael has captured this beautifully.

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SEVENTH HEAVEN

Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x 36 in.

A popular starry night scene that doesn’t last in the gallery for long. A lovely walkway of stones brings you to a lit home and barn. A perfect addition for any collector.

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WORLD HEADQUARTERS

Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 36 in. x 60 in.

From part of the Storm Light series, this one is fabulous.

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OLD BARN

Price: $
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 24 in. x 30 in.

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FIELD GEM

Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 30 in. x 40 in.

With a turquoise roof…….this barn truly is a gem!

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FAMILY MAN

Price: $3800
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 18 in. x 24 in.

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MIDNIGHT

Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 36 in. x 60 in.

A new expression!

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AUTUMN VIEW

Price: $SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 18 in. x 30 in.

 

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VERMONT IDOL

Price: $SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 24 in. x  20 in.

 

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THE VERMONTER

Price: $Sold
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 16 in. x  24 in.

 

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WONDERLAND

Price: $ SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 24 in. x  36 in.

Looks like Manchester Village, Vermont

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WINTER SNOW

Price: $ SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 30 in. x  60 in.

An incredible accent to any room!

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DUTIFUL STONE

Price: $ SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 36 in. x  48 in.

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SCARLETT STORMLIGHT

Price: $ SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 36 in. x  60 in.

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HALO

Price: $ SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 18 in. x  24 in.

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LAVENDER FIELDS

Price: SOLD SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 40 in. x  30 in.

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SNOWLIGHT

Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 16 in. x  24 in.

 

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RANGER BY REQUEST

Price:SOLD
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 28 in. x  36 in.

 

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LITTLE STORMLIGHT

Price:   SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 12 in. x  24 in.

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FARLIGHT

Price: $ 2900
Medium: Oil on linen
Size: 12 in. x 18 in.

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FARMER’S MORNING

Price: SOLD
Medium: Oil on panel
Size: 16 in. x  24 in.

 

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