Inspired by the French Barbizon painters of the mid 19^th century, McNaughton seeks to capture what he describes as "the subtle essence of nature." Famous for its misty, subtle tones of landscape, French Barbizon has been credited by many as the mainspring to the rise of Impressionism.

McNaughton’s style involves careful study of the forms and colors of nature. Spending hundreds of hours simply observing and studying the varying nuances of the landscape, McNaughton will return to his studio and paint from memory.

"I believe that only the basic elements of a beautiful painting exist in nature. The sentiment and feeling that flow from the mind and heart of an artist are what create the highest beauty of landscape painting."