Martha Groome 1945-2022 exhibited widely from 1968-2022 in New England, Philadelphia and Dallas concentrating on Maine where she was well known. Her rectangular abstract compositions radiate a sense of contemplation and solitude. She employs a harmonious palette with thematic ties of black, blue, white beige, ochre. Appearing simple at first glance the work invites longer contemplation; bits of brush stroke feel like small surprises. Groome stated, "My painting is made to look easy & direct, a sensation of presence with no instructions; each plane of color is carefully measured and developed". Groom's pallet & compositions don't leave one feeling jarred or unsettled, they are easy to warm up to. The palette is subtle and inviting. Perhaps owing to the 1940s-1960s ground breaking work of California Classicist John McLaughlin (1898-1976) Groome's paintings feel like moments of spiritual grounding, direct intention, confident well being; of not trying to reinvent, just capture a feeling.