Show Preview | Laguna Plein Air

Laguna Beach, CA
The Ranch at Laguna Beach, October 12-19

Michael Obermeyer, Serene Cove, 9 x 12.

This story was featured in the October 2014 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art October 2014 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story!

Since the early 20th century, artist have flocked to Laguna Beach for the chance to paint in the open air. Some observers like to say that with its lush flora and seaside views, Laguna Beach is, in fact, an impressionistic painting come to life. Today artists still converge in this picturesque locale to paint everything from its panoramic views to its small slices of everyday life.

The Laguna Plein Air Painters Association carries on the legacy of the early outdoor artists. Every October, LPAPA members turn the town into an outdoor studio as they paint on location and then present a show that displays the fruits of their artistic labors. This year’s Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational kicks off with a Quick Draw Paint-Out at Treasure Island Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. A reception for the artists and a silent auction follows from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Ranch at Laguna Beach. During the following week, more activities unfold, such as artists’ demonstrations and a special paint-out for students from the Laguna College of Art + Design, the next generation of plein-air painters. The various events lead up to the grand finale, the Collectors’ Soiree and public sale, which takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 18. Artists compete for more than $20,000 in awards.

Bryan Mark Taylor, Hotel Laguna, oil, 14 x 18.

This year’s presentation features more than 400 works for sale by 35 top plein-air painters, including Scott Prior, Debra Huse, Ray Roberts, Ken Auster, and Randall Sexton. Each artist can bring 10 paintings from home and then choose three works painted on location during the week to display in the show. Also participating in this year’s events are five guest artists: John Cosby, Joe Paquet, Kim Lordier, Kathleen Dunphy, and Jesse Powell.

LPAPA president Greg Vail says members aren’t resting on last year’s laurels. The 2013 show was a success in terms of sales and tickets sold. But new elements have been added to the invitational this year, such as Plein Talk, a panel discussion featuring artists and plein-air experts. —Bonnie Gangelhoff

contact information
949.376.3635
www.lagunapleinair.org

Featured in the October 2014 issue of Southwest Art magazine–click below to purchase:
Southwest Art October 2014 print issue or digital download Or subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss a story!