Nearly 45 artists gathered to capture vistas of scenic Kern County, California, in late May for Art 2022, the second annual plein air paint-out hosted by the Tehachapi Arts Commission. This month, from July 22 to 24, the artists return to Tehachapi, California, to exhibit the finished works in a curated show and sale.
Donald Towns, Elusive Illusions, oil, 18 x 24”After the initial paint-out, the artists retreated to their studios where they transformed their plein air quick-studies into finished works.
Oil painter Debra Holladay, whose work Tehachapi Oaks will be in the show, has been painting in the region for several years and is inspired by its “rolling, velvety hills; oak trees; cattle and very particular shade of green,” not to mention painting alongside cattle, horses, donkeys and other wildlife.
Debra Holladay, Tehachapi Oaks, oil, 18 x 24”
Tina Chong, The Vineyard at Willow Springs, oil, 16 x 20”
Holladay explains that she goes out on location to get to know a scene, its colors and values, in the hopes that she will return to her studio with a successful oil sketch.
“I’ve always considered plein air painting an ‘art sport,’” says Holladay. “There’s nothing like the physical effort of going outside and setting up your equipment, settling in with a focus on your immediate environment, and then making your marks on a canvas with intention. Regardless of whether you head back to the studio with a successful painting, color notes, or a hot mess, it’s always rewarding.”
Patrons taking in the artwork featured in the sale and exhibition in 2021.The artist notes that the exhibition is an added bonus to the Tehachapi paint-out. “It’s always fascinating to see the final paintings at the exhibition. Each artist has a unique point of view, style and color sensibility—not only is it inspiring but also fun to see everyone in one place and compare notes.” —
Art 2022
July 23-24, 2022
Aspen Builders Activities Center, 410 W. D Street, Tehachapi, CA, 93561
www.artstehachapi.org
Powered by Froala Editor
