Available Originals
22×30” watercolor & gold leaf on 1/8” panel.
A constellation of dancers suspended in gold — light, effortless, and completely swept away.
11×14” Watercolor and Gold Leaf on 1/2” Wood Panel.
An ensemble of dancers twirls across a radiant surface, each figure adding its own voice to a unified visual song. Fluid, feminine, and timeless.
11×14” Watercolor and Gold Leaf on 1/2” Wood Panel.
Playful and tender, this work celebrates joy for joy’s sake. The dancers float freely, unbound by gravity or expectation, basking in a glow that feels both ancient and brand new.
Congratulations, Natalie Ray!
Artist in Residence, 2025, Château d'Orquevaux
International Artist and Writers Residency, France
Permanent Collection, Château d'Orquevaux, France
Winner 2025 Emerging Artist Grant Recipient
Winner 2025 Denis Diderot Grant Recipient
Voted #1 Painter in WNC in 2024 & 2023
Best of WNC Awards
I have lived my life with a generous amount of spontaneity, and I keep that rhythm at the forefront of my work. I am most inspired by my immediate surroundings- the eclectic musical community in Asheville, and by traveling the world, experiencing the music and art of different cultures.
Throughout my paintings, I use the contrasting duo of indigo watercolor and 24 karat gold to feature the improvisation within the jazz genre, and the way the music comes from deep within the soul of the musician.
Natalie Ray
Natalie Ray is a watercolor & 24 karat gold leaf artist in the beautiful mountain city of Asheville, North Carolina.
Watercolor painting has always been a passion for Natalie but she developed her skill as an artist while living in Barcelona, Spain in 2003-2004. After moving to Asheville, Natalie joined the artist community of 310Art in the River Arts District, continuing her art education under internationally known and award-winning artists.
Natalie was born and raised in Northern California, where she founded her award-winning marketing and graphic design business. She has operated her thriving business for over 10 years and continues to help small businesses grow their passion into successful businesses.
Natalie’s paintings can be found on display in Asheville at Asheville Gallery of Art, Woolworth Walk, Mountain Madre, and Little Jumbo among other spaces.
For a full list of exhibitions, to inquire about a commission, original paintings, or fine art prints, please contact natalie@natalieonpaper.com.
Now Natalie lives and paints in Asheville with her musician husband, Justin Ray, and their three young children, Wyatt, Wesley, and Daisy.
Contact us.
natalie@natalieonpaper.com