Half Moon Bay, California

Painting the Pacific one wave at a time

Original oil paintings inspired by the rugged beauty of the Northern California coast. Each piece carries the salt air and golden warmth of Half Moon Bay.

Stormy Lighthouse - original painting by Rita Hiss
~ painted by the Pacific ~
Rita Hiss - artist portrait

Nurse by day, painter by the sea

I'm Rita Hiss, a nurse living in Half Moon Bay, California. When I'm not caring for patients, you'll find me on the bluffs with my easel, capturing the moody skies, crashing waves, and golden light of our incredible coastline.

Every painting is an original oil on canvas, created en plein air or from sketches made during my coastal walks. I'm drawn to lighthouses, dramatic weather, and the quiet beauty of rocky shores.

50+
Original Works
7
Years Painting
HMB
Based In

Commission a Piece

Want a painting of your favorite coastal spot, a lighthouse you love, or a seascape that speaks to you? I'd love to bring your vision to life on canvas.

01

Share Your Vision

Send me a photo or description of the scene you'd love captured in oil.

02

Sketch & Approve

I'll create a preliminary sketch and color study for your review before painting.

03

Receive Your Art

Your finished painting arrives professionally packed and ready to hang.

Start a Commission

Say Hello

Thank you! I'll get back to you within 24 hours. — Rita

Shipping & Policies

Shipping

All paintings are carefully packaged with archival materials and shipped via insured carrier. Domestic shipping (US) is a flat $45 for standard sizes. Oversized or international orders are quoted individually. Most orders ship within 5–7 business days.

Payment

Payment is accepted via Stripe (credit/debit card). For commissions, a 50% deposit is required to begin, with the balance due upon completion and approval of the painting.

Returns

Original art is non-refundable once shipped. If a painting arrives damaged, please contact me within 48 hours with photos and I will work with you on a resolution. Commissioned pieces are non-refundable after sketch approval.

Care

Oil paintings should be kept out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid glass cleaner or household chemicals on the surface.

To complete your purchase, click below. You'll be taken to a secure Stripe checkout page.

Proceed to Checkout

Or contact Rita directly with questions.