By Cristeen MARTINEZ

Scouting the Crescenta Valley, local artists discovered views that challenged them. They interpreted the dramatic light as it played across the local hills in paintings submitted to the second annual Crescenta Valley Arts Council Paint Out. The result was an exhibit of work displayed at St. Luke’s of the Mountains Episcopal Church last weekend. Among the many recognizable scenes were paths through Deukmejian Wilderness Park and the old stone barn there, businesses in Montrose and scenes in the local canyons rendered with the beautiful light and shadows of the plein air (in the open air) style.

In the 19th Century, Impressionists advocated the belief that the eyes should be trusted. These plein air artists explored newly developed theories of how the eye physically registers color. They maintained that what was seen in nature was not form, but rather light on form and light could be represented by color. Thus, the style is characterized by intense color and a rapid, loose rendering in order to capture the scene before the light changed. The plein air style has remained popular through the years with both artists and collectors.

The latest creations of plein air artists were exhibited by the Crescenta Valley Arts Council with the assistance of California Art Club artist and renowned teacher Margot Lennartz. Prominent CAC artist Frank Lennartz, along with Junn Roca, a signature member of the CAC and Oil Painters of America, were the jurors. Thanks were extended to Miguel Perez at Whites Art Framing and Restoration for handling Paint Out registration. Winners were announced at a reception that was open to the public.

Local exhibitions like the Crescenta Valley Arts Council’s Paint Out and the recent Glendale Art Association’s Fall Salon are ideal opportunities for beginners to build an art collection. Visiting exhibits at art organizations, schools, local galleries and museums is an important step in educating oneself and developing an understanding of art. That’s one of the differences between novices and experienced buyers.     Developing one’s own eye increases the awareness of knowing what is truly liked by the individual. Using this knowledge to acquire art because it moves the buyer will enhance the buyer’s life. Supporting local artists by purchasing their work enables a collector to start on an affordable scale while learning what is liked. Works by emerging artists are considerably less expensive while they are trying to build their careers and clientele.

Shape a collection that is meaningful personally. Collecting the work of local artists, getting to know them, brings a connection to the community and meaningfulness.

Ultimately, little compares to the joy of collecting and enjoying beautiful works of art.

  CHRISTEEN MARTINEZ, CV ARTS