Why should a painter pack up a bunch of gear, drive somewhere, suffer with cold or heat, worry about wild animals, fight the changing light and bugs just to paint out?  You will become a better painter guaranteed, you will paint better when working in your studio, you will “see” more colors and lighting effects then you knew existed, it’s an experience of that moment, that day, that can never be repeated.  You are in the painting zone, completely, and at one with your subject, at least for a brief time.  Painting with a group adds a huge safety feature and benefits everyone.

A few general helpful hints: 
 

Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, snack, bug spray, trash bag (we are good scouts and pack out more trash then in) and your gear.  For your comfort, keep your painting equipment to a minimum.  A small sketch pad to draw your composition, saves time.  Some painters find a viewfinder (even an empty slide sleeve) helpful.  A smaller canvas board (6” X 8”, 8” X 10”) is preferable for plein air.  A camera is a good tool to find your composition and to shoot your subject.  This photo and your plein air painting will give you enough information to create a larger studio painting. 

Rancho Camulos - Take Two!
Tuesday, April 1st, 9 - Noon
This month we are joining in the “Rancho Camulos Spring Plein Air Artists Day” 8am – 6pm (usually SCAA artists meet from 9am – 12noon) located on Highway 126, 10 miles from the 5 Freeway. As many of you know we had a great day planned at the Rancho in February (see below) and Mother Nature changed the plan by pouring rain on us. Here is our second chance and it’s a great offer.

The Rancho will be open to artists capturing your impressions on canvas, paper or film. Docents will be dressed in period costume, available for posing and a delicious lunch will be served to all.

Artists are invited to bring their work for sale during the Ranchos Fiesta on May 3 (10% sale commission to the Rancho). The fee for the day, including lunch is $20.00 (includes models lunch and displaying artwork at the Fiesta [if you choose too]). Pre-registration is encouraged by printing out the form on the Rancho’s website www.ranchocamulos.org This location is very civil, restrooms; flat grounds, pathways and beautiful gardens will make creating lovely artwork a real pleasure.

 If you have any questions please call Laura Wambsgans @ 661 259-0696 or email

Wambsgans@pacbell.net. On the day of the paint out call Laura @ 818 625-0446

Saturday, January 26, 9AM - 12 PM
 
Member and Publicity Chair, Olga Kaczmar has generously offered her home for our paint out. She has a long horned steer in the back corral, two horses grazing in the riverbed, a European looking barn and wilderness across the street from her driveway. I think you could paint there for days, but we only have 3 hours. Also, a bonus, we can have a potluck lunch after painting. If you would like to "dine" together bring something healthy to share.
 

LOCATION: 24979 Alderbrook Drive, Santa Clarita. Off of San Fernando Road turn onto 13th St., cross the railroad tracks and follow the road on a sharp right curve. Turn left on 12th St. (right across from the motorcycle shop), go one block east to Alderbrook, turn left. Follow Alderbrook almost to the end. Go slow and park anywhere you can.

If it's raining, stay home under the covers and we will regroup for another day. If you are unsure, give me a call (818 625-0446). Bring the usual gear and especially your camera (the steer does move now and then). Any questions please email or call Laura,  marblemad@hotmail.com / 661 259-0696.