Serendipity

In Front of Buffalo Brothers Guitars in Carlsbad, California

2012-01-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

Retired Red Tractor 12"h by 16"w plein air in oil on canvas panel

Since my husband and I moved to Carlsbad a few years ago, I've been admiring this beautiful old tractor that's displayed in front of Buffalo Brother's Guitars, Bobby's Hideaway Cafe and a flower shop on El Camino Real. Finally a few weeks ago, I brought a student to the location and we began to paint it from life. (en plein air) The weather has been absolutely glorious this winter in Carlsbad, so I was able to go back today to finish it! I spoke with Marja Selna today, who is the daughter of the original property owners here. Her parents were egg ranchers; collecting, cleaning, packaging and selling their eggs to nearby businesses. This business was sold to Olson Farms. In 1970, they opened up a Country Store (which is why local Carlsbadians sometimes refer to the area as "the Country Store") , but now Marja primarily manages the property which is rented to other businesses.
Years ago, Marja's dad had admired the tractor at the nearby Wiegand farm, and eventually he obtained it. For years, he kept it in good repair and repainted it red, and here it sits as a true historical representation of a time gone by in Carlsbad, California..

Oceanside Museum of Art Artist Alliance Juried Exhibit

2011-12-06T15:23:00.001-08:00

Batiquitos Lagoon 18"h by 24"w oil on canvas $1200

Southbound Getaway, Plein Air 11"h by 14"w oil on canvas panel $850

The Oceanside Museum of Art will be presenting work by the Oceanside Museum of Art Artist Alliance for the first time ever! Of more than 240 items submitted from local artists, only 28 were selected due to space restraints. I am honored that two of my local Southern California landscape paintings were juried into this special exhibit.

Exhibition Dates: February 4-April 1, 2012
Artists Reception: Saturday, February 4, 2:00pm-4:00pm

704 Pier View Way
Oceanside, CA 92054
760 435 3720

Museum Hours:

Tuesday-Saturday
10:00am-4:00pm

Sunday
1:00pm-4:00pm

Closed major holidays

OMA Members free

General admission $8

Seniors 65+ $5

Students free with I.D.

Military and their dependents free with I.D.

North American
Reciprocal Museum
Program Members
free with I.D.

mission

Classical Music and Visual Art at the Dana Point Symphony

2011-09-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Southbound Getaway 22" by 28"

Solo Exhibit with the Dana Point Symphony
April 13, 2012

Saint Edward's Catholic Church
33926 Calle La Privavera
Dana Point, California 92629

The City of Dana Point is pairing classical music with visual artsin a series of concerts featuring the newly founded Dana PointSymphony, and select visual artists including Rita Pacheco. (RitaPacheco will be exhibiting five of her larger paintings at the April 13th performance of Berenika, Piano)The concert will begin at 7:30 pm, and will be followed by an artistreception at 9:30 pm, immediately following the performance. Tickets forthe performances are $12 for adults and $8 for seniors (65 and over)For the full 2012 Concert Season and for tickets go to http://danapointsymphony.com

On Location Exhibit, SoCalPAPA Gallery

2011-09-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

on location at El Capitan State Beach, Goleta, California

"Stairwell at the Beach" 8"h by 10"w oil

on location from the side of the road in Napa, California

"Farmhouse in Napa" 8"h by 10"w oil

The "On Location" Exhibit features plein air paintings with their location photos. Opening Reception: Saturday, September 17th from 4:00-6:00 pm

The SOCALPAPA Gallery is located on the Balboa Fun Zone Boardwalk
600 East Bay Avenue,
Newport Beach, CA 92661

Open Wed-Sun 1:00-5:00pm
Exhibit will run through October 30, 2011
www.socalpapa.com

California Art Club "Asian Influences Exhibit" at the Pacific Asia Museum

2011-09-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

"Kimono Dragon" 10"x 8"oil on canvas panel

"Kimono Dragon" was juried into the California Art Club "Asian Influences Exhibit" at the Pacific Asia Museum, which opens this thursday, September 15th. The show will run through October 30, 2011.
Opening Reception will be Sunday, September 18th, from 4:30-6:30

Pacific Asia Museum
46 North Los Robles Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101

My husband and I visited the Pacific Asia Museum this afternoon and it is beautiful; inside and out! I will be at the reception-I hope you can make it too!

Rita Pacheco; FEATURED ARTIST at the CARLSBAD OCEANSIDE ART LEAGUE Gallery

2011-09-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

Overlooking the Lagoon 8"h by 10"w plein air in oil

I am honored to be the Carlsbad/Oceanside Art League's "Featured Artist" for the September Exhibit, where 16 of my most recent paintings are displayed. I hope you are able to come see my show! All are welcome-admission is free to the gallery. It would be wonderful to see you at the Opening Reception this Sunday, September 11th from 3:00-5:00pm. The exhibit will run through Saturday, October 1st.The COAL Gallery is located in the Carlsbad Village; 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 and is open Wed-Sunday 11:00am-5:00pm and til 8:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays

September 10th, 2011 Pinnell Gallery, Fallbrook

2011-09-09T18:03:00.000-07:00

"Tea With Mom" 6"h by 8"w oil on canvas panel

"It's The Little Things" Pinnell Gallery in Fallbrook, California

Saturday, September 10th

This is a "miniature" show of 8 x 10 paintings or smaller. The Opening Reception will be on Saturday, September 10th, 3:00pm - 6:00 pm. Wine and snacks will be served while you visit with me and the other participating artists. There will be over 94 pieces or art that will be available for purchase! I hope to see you there! The Pinnell Gallery is located in "down-town" Fallbrook; 124 North Main Street, Fallbrook, CA 92028 ph: (760) 728 8870

"Cowboy" 6" by 6" oil on panel

"The Dancer" 8"h by 6"w oil on panel

Introducing the Hartwell Winery Series

2011-08-13T12:15:00.001-07:00

I am pleased to announce new representation at the
Hartwell Vineyards in the beautiful Napa Valley, California! These paintings were completed or started on location at the Vineyard! The Hartwells are kind and generous people, and their winery is a "must see" for your next wine-tasting tour! These eight vineyard paintings will be displayed in their tasting room for you to enjoy and purchase while you indulge in their exquisite wines! The paintings and their descriptions can be found on my website, in the "vineyard gallery". For Hartwell Vineyards, scroll down to: http://www.hartwellvineyards.com/

COAL Annual Open Juried Fine Arts Award Show

2011-08-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that my two entries for the COAL Annual Open Juried Fine Arts Award Show were juried in by esteemed judges John Asaro and Chuck McPherson! These are, "While They Fished, I Painted" 20"h by 28"w and "Overlooking the Buena Vista Lagoon", 11"h by 14" w.
Having just accepted the position of Secretary for the COAL Gallery, I've been learning more about this wonderful organization, and I'm proud to be a part!

In honor of the Carlsbad Oceanside Art League's 60th Anniversary, the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside are presenting them with proclamations. I happen to have been able to see the document from the City of Carlsbad, and this is how it reads:

“WHEREAS, the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League (COAL) was formed in August, 1951 by a small group of emerging artists, and

WHEREAS, this group of artists began promoting art education and cultural appreciation of fine art in the community, and

WHEREAS, the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League has promoted art education and cultural appreciation of fine art in the community with monthly art exhibits, a yearly open exhibit which solicits participation from the surrounding communities, “Art on the Green” in the heart of Carlsbad Village, monthly art demonstrations which are, in part, funded by the City of Carlsbad Arts Office, Featured Artists, who have been granted this opportunity for a solo show within the gallery through their being awarded a Best of Show in one of the monthly judged exhibits, and it’s Life Drawing Group held twice a month at the gallery, but most importantly,

WHEREAS, the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League has, through it’s efforts, raised scholarship funds for high school students in the surrounding school districts and provided them a venue to display their work annually as well as created a Children’s Art Show each May to provide aspiring and budding artists the opportunity to display their work as well; and

WHEREAS, the COAL Gallery has successfully achieved its mission of art education and cultural appreciation of fine art in the community for 60 years as of August 7, 2011;

THEREFORE, the City of Carlsbad, on behalf of its citizens, acknowledges the Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League’s long standing commitment to the mission of art education and cultural appreciation of fine art in the community as the oldest art association in North San Diego County, recognizes the COAL Gallery for its fine art, its service and educational outreach to the community, and the scholarships it grants, on this, the occasion of its 60^th birthday.”

Camping & Painting at El Capitan State Beach

2011-07-25T16:00:00.001-07:00

This past week we enjoyed our fourteenth annual camping trip to El Capitan State Beach in Goleta, California. We camped, hiked and enjoyed good music, food and each others' company. And of course, I painted. We enjoyed three glorious days of sunshine, and I was able to complete a small painting of the stairwell in the first evening. "Stairwell at the Beach" is 8"h by 10"w . I will be painting a larger version of this one for sure! (The one I painted last year was sold a few days after painting it without even getting a good photo for reference!) "Bike Ride to Portola", 8"h by 10"w features bicyclists along the shady path that leads to the group campsite. "Ocean Therapy", 12" h by 16"w, I painted while our family prepared our "Italian Themed" pot luck dinner after a long day at the beach. "Ocean Break" 12"h by 16"w was painted from our "beach front" picnic table, while I enjoyed the company of my mother, sisters and brother in law, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews. Our last full day was rather gloomy, but the sun finally did come out at around 5pm, while I painted "Here Comes the Sun" 8"h by 10"w (sold already!) It was a wonderful trip-I am truly blessed with a loving and supportive family!

California Art Club "Fresh Air" Exhibit

2011-06-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that three of my recent landscape paintings were accepted into the California Art Club Exhibition at the Fremont Gallery, "Fresh Air Exhibit"; "Southbound Getaway"(22"h by 28"w), "Flower Fields of Carlsbad"(8"h by 10"w) , and "Long Beach Bike Ride" (18"h by 24"w)

The Fremont Gallery is located at: 812 Fremont Avenue, Suite 100 South Pasadena, CA 91030

Exhibition dates: July 2-July 31, 2011
The Artists reception will be Saturday, July 2, 2011 6:00pm-9:00pm. I hope to see you there!

Earth & Sea Exhibit Coming up!

2011-06-07T11:39:00.001-07:00

Two of my most recent plein air paintings, "Where Carlsbad Meets the Sea" (11"h x 14"w) and "An Afternoon at Terramar" (11"h x 14"w) were juried into the Southern California Plein Air Painters Association Annual Aquatics Exhibit, "Earth & Sea"! The SoCalPAPA Gallery is in partnership with the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum and is located at 6oo East Bay Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92661. The exhibit will run from June 15th-September 11th. Opening Reception will be Saturday, June 18th, from 4-6pm. Hope to see you there!

Katie Wheeler Library, Irvine, California

2011-05-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

This past friday was the Gala Reception for the SOCALPAPA "Paint the Parks" Juried Art Show and Sale, held at the Irvine Ranch Historic Park. Juried artwork for the show needed to be dropped off at the park on friday afternoon by 1:00pm, but the reception wasn't until 6:00pm. It was a gorgeous day, and this historic building caught my eye. Five hours went by in a flash as I spent the time painting it in the afternoon sun! Today, the Katie Wheeler Library is a public library, but it's history is quite interesting: http://katiewheelerlibrary.wordpress.com/ We held our 2-Day Art Sale there in the gardens this past weekend, and it was a beautiful venue!

Adjusting to Climate Change

2011-05-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

This past week, we've had some crazy weather here in Carlsbad! I painted with a friend on Monday at the famous flower fields and it was a gorgeous and sunny day. Friday, I painted with a few students at Camp Pendleton (thank you Tara and Amit for gaining access for us!) and it was (at least luckily, consistantly) overcast! I thought it would be fun to post these together!

Less is More

2011-05-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

Honored to see my painting "The Bridge and the Train" on the full color post card advertisement for the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association's "Less is More" Exhibit. It's sure to be an extraordinary show at the Randy Higbee Gallery! Here are the details:

Randy Higbee Gallery
102 Kalmus
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Artists' Reception: Saturday, May 21,2011 4:00pm-8:00pm
Exhibition Dates: May 21, 2011 through June 4, 2011

SOCALPAPA "Paints the Parks"

2011-05-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

Juried Art Show, Exhibit and Sale May 20-22, 2011
Irvine Ranch Historic Park 13042 Old Myford Road in Irvine (Irvine Blvd. and Jamboree)
Gala Reception: Friday 6:00pm-tickets available
Art Exhibit and Sale: Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm
For information call 714-832-6299

Here are my two of my recent plein air paintings and accepted entries into the show: "Begonia Park/Newport Harbor" (11"h by 14"w) This quiet little park is tucked away behind the harbor in a beautiful residential area, and overlooks the balboa peninsula.
"Caspers Wilderness Park" (11"h by 14"w) This regional park is a stunning 8,000 acre protected wilderness preserve found along highway 74, inland of San Juan Capistrano. The light hitting this "Old Corral and wind mill" in the early afternoon was fun to paint among the Native Live Oak and California Sycamore!

Live Drawing Sessions at Prior Studios

2011-04-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evenings 6pm-9pm we host an uninstructed "live drawing session" for artists of all abilities. The cost is $10. Our studio is located at 2539 State Street in Carlsbad. It sits behind the "Trade Center" buildings at 2551 State Street, so enter the parking lot at the south end of these buildings. We are a few blocks north of Grand Avenue, and just south of Laguna Drive. (Shown here is a photo of a clothed model which we try to include around once a month.) For the most part, artists use charcoal but are welcome to use their choice of medium. The first people to reserve their spot get to use one of the work benches we have at the studio. Otherwise, please bring a portable easel.

Eggstraordinary

2011-04-19T12:06:00.001-07:00

Here's a recent still life I've been working on, "Eggstraordinary". I had been looking for eggplant locally (to paint of course) and have not been able to find it. (I guess it's not in season?) Luckily, I came across a box of lovely eggplant at the San Clemente Farmers Market on Sunday when I was hosting the gallery there. I could hardly wait to get back to my studio to paint it! I had this beautiful orange silk handy to wrap it with in this cute little dish that my friend accidentally left at my house months ago!
Now, I better cook something with eggplant in it pretty quick!

What is a Kaffir boom?

2011-04-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

This lovely tree caught my eye months ago (before it even had these glorious red blooms) sitting at the corner of Laguna Drive and State Street, right across from the studio space I share in Carlsbad. It overlooks the Buena Vista Lagoon and the light on it (in the morning shown here) or in the afternoon is stunning. My attempt to capture it was a wonderful experience for me, then my search for it's name was a real challenge. (you wouldn't believe how many "flowering trees, specifically "RED flowering trees" there are!) Well, finally I decided that this must be the "Kaffir boom" also called a "Coral Tree" or "Flame Tree". I found that it originated in South Africa, but also grows along coastal areas. We're sure enjoying it here in Carlsbad!

Cocktail Hour 6" by 6"

2011-03-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here are two of my recent "rainy day" paintings. (I've noticed that it's healthier to spend time painting this kind of set up than it is to consume it -and this kind of activity sure doesn't have the side effects one suffers the "next day" either!) "Gin and Tonic for Two" will be displayed and offered for sale at the Randy Higbee Gallery for his "6" Squared Exhibit".
102 Kalmus Dr
Costa Mesa, CA 9262A
Gala Artists' Reception will be held Saturday, April 16th. 5:00pm-9:00pm
The show will run through May 6th.

http://www.randyhigbeegallery.com/Randy_Higbee_Gallery/EVENTS.html

Contact me for "Tequila and Lime"

Both paintings will be framed in similar "premium" Randy Higbee "water guilded silver box" frames and will look great together in your kitchen or family room!

Southbound Getaway

2011-03-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

Lately, trying to stretch, I've been painting larger studies outside. Here is one of my most recent, "Southbound Getaway" 11"h x 14"w on a canvas panel. In the past, it has been so easy to "see" the whole composition on a small panel (6" x 8" or even an 8" x 10"), that it was "more comfortable" for me to paint "smaller". However, when I would bring the painting back to my studio to create a "larger piece", this would sometimes pose a problem for me since much of the "loose brushwork" and "passion" of a quickly done plein air painting is lost on a bigger canvas. Thanks to my good friend and studio partner, Scott W. Prior, (who has been challenging me to "paint bigger") I feel like I've finally figured it out: If I use a BIGGER brush, and practice painting outside from life on bigger canvases, my translated strokes will be more "natural" and make the transition to "larger studio piece" more easily! For this particular plein air piece, I resisted the urge to grab my smaller brushes for ANY detail-and amazingly it seems to have worked!

Love is...

2011-02-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

In honor of the month of February, I'm dedicating this post to "love". After having seen a short documentary on a singer/songwriter, John Mark McMillan at church last weekend, I've been thinking more about "what" and "who" I love and "how" I love them. First of all, I LOVE chocolate kisses, and chocolate/candy covered pretzels just like the next girl. That said, I've learned to LOVE to paint these and more otherwise fattening treats even more than their taste! Even so, that LOVE pales in comparison to the LOVE I feel for my daughter who helped me dip and decorate the pretzels for my sister's "Valentine's" birthday party, my son who sang to us as we celebrated her milestone, my husband who spent all day creating a delicious meal for the event, and all of my brothers and sisters, especially and including the "birthday girl"! This is a LOVE that I'm capable of, but there's an even greater love:

"For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" John 3:16

Weekly Classes Beginning January 24th!

2011-01-13T11:19:00.001-08:00

Current Adult Workshops:
Monday:Drawing Fundamentals/Rita Pacheco
$400
Workshop Dates: 1/24/2011-1/14/2011
10:00am-1:00pm
Location: Prior Studios
Semi-private (maximum 6 students) begins Monday, January 24, Open to beginners or those interested in improving their drawing skills. This course will focus on the fundamentals of drawing from life: composition, proportion, perspective, light and shadow, foreshortening, value and texture. If you are unable to commit to 8 weeks, there is a $75 drop in fee for one session. Space is very limited.
*Materials: graphite pencils of your choice, kneaded eraser, 18” by 24” newsprint (I prefer smooth print) and backing board.
If you have any questions, please contact Rita: email: rita@pacheco.ws
cell: 951 965 2517 www.ritapacheco.com

Celebrating in 2011 (without a hang over!)

2011-01-05T11:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! 2010 went out with a bang for Rita Pacheco Fine Art; being awarded a "Juror's Choice Award" from the California Art Club, and First Place for the COAL gallery's Winter Exhibit, finding into a new studio space in the Carlsbad Village, and selling 5 paintings all in the last few days of December was huge fun! Worth Celebrating for sure! The rainy and cold weather kept me indoors a lot of the time and that left me with all of these beautiful and colorful still life possibilities! I've posted 9 new still life paintings on my website this morning, even one "black and white"! The two shown here are both 10" h x 8" w oil on canvas panels; "Gin & Tonic" and "Celebrate!" They are both still available and I can guarantee there will be no "hang over/side effects"!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-20T10:27:00.001-08:00

While it's been rainy and cold outside, I've been busy in my studio with still life paintings. This one I had printed for our Christmas cards. 12"h x 9"w "American Christmas" depicts a few items that make me smile; a vintage "Coca Cola" bottle, some old and frail (german) Christmas ornaments that belonged to my grandmother, and in the background a holiday kitchen towel given to me by my dear friend when I lived in Lake Elsinore. I only put these things together, you understand, because I liked the way they looked together and the memories that they brought to mind. But when I was done, I reflected on all these random objects from different places and different times that made up this composition and how it's so like Americans who are made up of so many different ethnic origins and traditions. How good it is that we can enjoy one another's differences in brotherly/sisterly love and God must smile on us when we do!

Thanks for Bob Ellis!

2010-11-23T14:46:00.000-08:00

In memory of a dear man who was one of our beloved neighbors/friends from our Tuscany Hills neighborhood in Lake Elsinore, this small (6"h x8"w)piece is a "thank you" gift for his surviving wife, Myra. For reference, I used a snapshot taken one morning a few years ago, when Bob and Myra were going out for a leisurely ride. Bob was a friendly man, with a charming British accent and a great sense of humor. Buddy and I are indebted to him for his neighborly kindness, and feel blessed that we shared a bit of time with him! Thanks Bob! We know that heaven is enjoying your company until we meet again!

Demonstration at Grove Park

2010-11-12T14:48:00.001-08:00

This morning I met with a group of painters from the Southern California Plein Air Painters Association at Hosp Grove Park in Carlsbad. Weeks ago, when I was asked to do the demo, I was hesitant because I'd never done a "formal demonstration", but decided that it would be a good experience for me, and I turned out to be right! It was an absolutely beautiful morning, and the eucalyptus trees were radiant in the sunlight. Thank you God! I had a wonderful time, and completed the first 10"h by 8"w demo in record time (It must be sort of like giving a speech-when you're nervous in front of people, you talk fast) I was drawn to the image of one of the artists painting in the sunlight, and decided to include her in my second 10"h by 8"w painting of the day. After painting, it was great to walk around and see what all the other artists were doing and talk to them about their work. Thank you to all the artists who battled rush hour traffic to watch my demo and visit Carlsbad!

California Art Club "Magnificent Miniatures"

2010-11-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

"Seahorse Resort", 8"h by 6"w plein air, oil on canvas panel and "A Girl and Her Dog" 10"h by 8"w oil on panel were juried into the California Art Club's "Magnificent Miniatures"! This is a a special 1-day (1-evening) exhibition and sale event at The Historic Blinn House in Pasadena: Magnificent Miniatures. This special exhibition will take place on the same evening as the opening of the next rotating exhibition at the Blinn House, Golden State Treasures.

EVENT DATE & TIME: December 4, 2010
5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

LOCATION: The Blinn House
Women's City Club of Pasadena
160 N. Oakland Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101

California Art Club "Golden State Treasures"

2010-11-05T07:22:00.001-07:00

8"h x 10"w plein air "Overlooking the Hedionda Lagoon"

This painting was juried into the California Art Club's "Golden State Treasures" exhibit!
EXHIBITION DATES: December 4, 2010 - April 14, 2011

ARTISTS' RECEPTION: Saturday, December 4; 5 p.m.

LOCATION: The Blinn House
Women's City Club of Pasadena
160 N. Oakland Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101

Earth and Sea; Places, Objects and Water

2010-10-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Southern California Plein Air Painters Association presents the Aquatic Show, "Earth & Sea; Places, Objects and Water". Two of my paintings have been juried into the show! One is pictured here: "While They Fished", a piece I completed while my husband and his friends fished at Saddlebag Lake, California. Another is "Raining at Green Creek", pictured in my last post.

Please join us for the Opening Reception
Saturday, November 6 from 5-7pm

The show will run from November 3-January 2

SoCalPAPA Art Gallery
600 East Bay Avenue
Newport Beach, CA 92661
for more information, call 949 675-8915

Bridgeport, California in the Rain

2010-10-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

"The Bridge at Twin Lakes", 6"h x 8"w plein air

"Raining at Green Creek" 6"h x 8"w plein air

"Morning at Twin Lakes" 6"h x 8"w plein air

This excursion really represented a turning point for me; I painted in inclement weather! I was so excited to be spending the week in beautiful Bridgeport, California with my husband, who would be fishing. My mother in law even came and offered to watch our little dachshund while I painted! Imagine the disappointment when we learned that there would be only one day of sunshine during our trip! Well, we brought some "weather proof" gear and trudged on! I discovered that painting outdoors (even in the rain) is always an exhilarating experience!

"Small to Large"

2010-09-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

SoCalPAPA Art Gallery will present a close look on how artists have enlarged a smaller plein air painting into a larger work in the studio. On display and for sale are both the small paintings and the enlargements. Two of my paintings, "Overlooking the Lagoon Plein Air" 8"h x10"w, and a larger studio piece, "Overlooking the Lagoon" 24"h by 36"w were juried into the show!
The exhibit will run September 15th thru October 30th, 2010
Opening Reception is Saturday, September 18th, from 4:00pm-6:00pm

SoCalPAPA Galler is located on the Historic Balboa Bayfront Boardwalk
Hope to see you at the reception!

Bridgeport

2010-09-04T17:52:00.001-07:00

My husband and I spent last week celebrating our 23rd wedding anniversary in Bridgeport, California where he and his work buddies fished and I painted. It was a dream vacation, where I was able to paint to my heart's content, while NOT worrying about people "waiting for me to finish"! During our visit, I was able to complete 4 paintings, AND spend time getting reference material for future paintings in the studio. I think this arrangement is going to work out pretty well! In fact, we're going back next month!
This 8"h by 6"w oil is of my husband and is not for sale, but the others posted on my website are! Take a look and contact me if interested!

Local Heroes

2010-08-25T12:28:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, a group of clowns came talking and laughing through the doors at the New Village Art Foundry Art Studios where I was working, and I couldn't keep my eyes off them! They didn't mention it then, but later I found out that these "senior citizens" dress up for "Clown Week", and visit the local convalescent homes in Carlsbad.
More about Clown Week: On October 8, 1970, Public Law 91-443 under the 91st Congress, JJR 26 was passed by both the House and Senate and was sent to President Richard Nixon for his signature.
The joint resolution was signed into law by President Nixon on August 2, 1971.
President Nixon released his "National Clown Week By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation".
Since then Governors and Mayors have had their own Clown week proclamation for their state or city.
Today the National Clown Week has grown to International Clown Week.

This painting Celebrates the Spirit of these beautiful and generous people who bring happiness into the lives of those less fortunate than themselves!

The Sun is finally OUT!

2010-07-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

After enduring weeks of "June gloom", this morning the sun was out bright and early. I couldn't wait to paint outside! I headed to Carlsbad Village, and was overwhelmed with subject matter. (I'm really appreciating all the "light and shadow" right now!) I finally decided to park myself in front of this darling little "chocolate bar" on State Street. I'm thinking of doing a series of "store fronts" in this cute little town! "Chocolate Bar" is 8"h by 6"w

San Clemente Art Gallery Sale

2010-06-28T07:04:00.000-07:00

This 8"h x 6"w oil painting, "Seahorse Resort" was awarded an "Honorable Mention" at the "Paint San Clemente" Gala last Saturday. Both my submissions, and many many more beautiful paintings will be on display and offered for sale at the San Clemente Art Gallery 100 N. Calle Seville, at the Community Center through July 31st!
Remember, "Art is the only way to run away without leaving home" Twyla Tharp

Paint San Clemente

2010-06-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

This week I'm participating in the Annual "Paint San Clemente" event! Last weekend, 126 artists had our canvases or boards "stamped", and throughout the week we've been coloring them with scenes of or around San Clemente, California! Pictured above, is one of mine, "From Under the Pier". It's 8"h x 10"w, and is (probably) going to be one of my (2 possible) entries for tomorrow's festivities and Gala at the San Clemente Community Center. Additionally, I will be participating in the OUTDOOR ART SHOW this Saturday and Sunday, June 26 and 27 and will be showing many of my most recent paintings. Hope to see many of you there!

Long Beach Bike Festival Paint-out, Exhibition & Sale

2010-05-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

Here are my 2 entries for the Long Beach Exhibit, and also a photo my husband took while I painted "en plein air" on Ocean Boulevard in April for the event. This exciting exhibit was organized by the California Art Club in conjunction with the Long Beach Bike Festival. "Bike Ride on Ocean Boulevard", (8"h by 10"w oil on canvas panel) and "Howard's Brothers Music Emporium", (8"h by 10"w oil on canvas panel) were on display along with 70 other works for the reception at the Phantom Gallery on Promenade Street on May 8th and 9th. They are among 26 works that were selected for the special juried exhibition, Artists Explore Long Beach at the Long Beach Museum of Art. Exhibition dates are May 10-24. The hours at the museum are Tuesday-Sunday 11:00am-5:00pm. $7-adults, $6-students and seniors, friday admission is free! I hope you can make it!

Oma's little glass figurine

2010-04-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

This little figurine was one of my grandmother's beautiful things that I loved to look at as a child. When she moved from her home in Brooklyn, NY into our family home in Long Beach, CA, she brought all of her "little goodies" with her. I can't remember how I talked her into letting me have this figurine and it's companion (a darling "little boy figurine" that I'll paint later) but I have cherished it for years. It's broken (I swear I didn't do it!) and repaired, but it's still a darling token that reminds me of my sweet little "Oma".

Ride to Oceanside

2010-03-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

In preparation for painting for the Long Beach Bike Festival in May, I've been studying "car and bike traffic" from photos..This painting is based on a photo I took while riding my bike with my husband a few days ago. A typical beautiful sunny afternoon in Oceanside, I was so happy to have my phone camera ready when the glow of the setting sun was on him!
14"h by 11"w oil on canvas board "Ride to Oceanside"

Small is Beautiful

2010-03-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

This painting, "From the Bluffs" was juried into a Southern California Plein Air Painters Exhibit. Here's the info:

Small is Beautiful

The Reception for the Small Works show is April 3rd at the SoCalPAPA Gallery.

The Gallery is located in Balboa on the Peninsula at the Fun Zone. Right next to the Merry Go Round and Ferris Wheel.

The Reception will held at 4pm. Awards and prizes and food and lots of great paintings for sale. The show will run until June 13, 2010

I'd love to see you!

The Cottages at Crystal Cove

2010-03-22T15:39:00.001-07:00

A beautiful morning in Newport Beach this morning, a group of painters met at the Cottages in Crystal Cove for a session of plein air painting. This group of cottages stood out to me and the colorful reflection of them in the pool of back flow from the ocean, particularly the bright greenish/blue cottage. To organize the information in front of me, I tried to recall the "theory of angles" regarding values of planes in a landscape set out by a legend of plein air painting, John Carlson. Also, remembering what he said about "TMI", when he said, "There probably never was a picture that was poor because it lacked in detail or subject matter, rather the opposite. Bad paintings are usually so overloaded with useless detail that the essentials are obliterated." I took photo reference too, and am looking forward to a larger study in the studio!

Puppy Love

2010-02-28T13:39:00.001-08:00

In honor of our sweet dachshund, Frankie. 11 years ago, we brought him to our home in Lake Elsinore, and our children were so thrilled to play with him on our front grass. He loved to chase butterflies, reflections, or "the light". He would sit for hours, staring at bug shadows on the ground, even trying to bite them. Needless to say, he was quite entertaining, and we loved him dearly. This little 5" by 7" oil painting is my prayer for him. I'm sure now that "all dogs go to heaven"!

Part of the Buena Vista Lagoon

2010-02-15T12:51:00.000-08:00

This body of water/marsh land is right off of highway 78, and I believe it's part of the Buena Vista Lagoon. I noticed it from the freeway months ago, and have been planning a painting trip here. I was pleased to find a road right off the highway "Vista Way", where I was able to see the golden plant life surrounding the pools of water. I took plenty of photo reference, so will probably do a larger "studio painting" later!

Beach Rules

2010-02-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

As you drive close to the beach in Carlsbad, between the houses are sweet little spots of ocean. Most of these provide access to the beach, (as long as you follow the rules). I loved this little scene, framed on either side by tropical trees, and the structures in shadow. "Beach Rules" is an 8"h by 10"w oil, and is available!

Agua Hedionda

2010-02-04T12:27:00.001-08:00

As life's little problems catch up with me, I really look forward to mondays and thursdays, when I can paint outside. However, when I woke up to a border-line cloudy morning, I resigned to painting "in the studio" today. I changed my mind again, as the dogs and I took our morning walk. The view of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon caught my eye. After hurrying them home, I packed my gear and headed back for the project of capturing it. Between the clouds, the sun sparkled on the water in the distance casting a beautiful glow. What a stress reliever painting is!

RSF Studio-Today's Model

2010-02-02T15:07:00.001-08:00

Today, the model didn't show up to the studio-so we painted this little dog! Isn't he darling? He didn't move a bit, since he's made of plaster! One of the most life-like I've ever seen!

A New Year

2010-01-29T08:23:00.001-08:00

Before AJ left for his trip to the UK for "studying abroad", he granted me a visit to the beach where I photographed him at the most beautiful time of the day. I love that orange "glow" just before sunset! Unfortunately, after AJ had left, I realized that I hadn't taken enough reference. I was not happy with the placement of his left foot, so I had to ask Natalie to pose for me in the same position, at the same location, in the same shoes (or similar) to reposition it. I'm pleased with my "block-in" in burnt umber, and feel the transition from "her foot" to "his foot" went well in my drawing. As the painting progresses I will continue to post.

First Week at RSF Studio

2010-01-12T14:14:00.001-08:00

I was recently invited to be a part of a group of arists who meet regularly in Rancho Santa Fe. The setting is wonderful, as the studio sits on beautiful acreage, complete with a grove of lemon trees! I was pleasantly surprised to find a few familiar faces! I'm quite happy with this 14"h by 11"w study, "Kerry". I am committed to indicating shapes more simply, and this opportunity is going to help tremendously! I hope to post many more "studies" from this studio!

"Batiquitos Lagoon"

2010-01-11T19:34:00.001-08:00

Today, I met with the "Laguna Plein Air Painters Association" for a beautiful morning at the Batiquitos Lagoon, in Carlsbad. I was fortunate enough to find a spot in the shade of a eucalyptus tree where I painted the play of light from beyond the hills illuminating the pattern in the dry marsh in front of the lagoon. "Batiquitos Lagoon" is 6"h by 8"w

San Clemente Pier

2010-01-10T14:40:00.001-08:00

Here are two plein air paintings from my visits to San Clemente this weekend. San Clemente has a beautiful pier, and I'm always captivated with the contrast of the dark wooden pylons in front of the surf in full morning sunlight. Friday, I stood in front and just a bit north of the pier, and worked fast on this small canvas panel to capture the scene. "Beyond the Blue Umbrellas" is 6"h by 8"w and will be ready for sale in about a month.
Saturday, I was surprised to find a large crowd there, waiting for a surfing contest. Where I had stood the day before, there were huge vendor tents so I had to back up a bit (on the grassy area) to take in the people gathered under the shaded pergola on the beach, and the surf beyond. "Waiting" is 8"h by 10"w and will also be available in February.

The Santa Barbara County Court House

2010-01-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, my sister in law/web master gave me a few postcard sized photos of the beautiful Santa Barbara County Court House to work from to create a larger painting that she and her husband could display in their home. They were married in that court yard, and it was one of the most beautiful weddings I've ever attended. (Even Good Morning America was there!) Well, I held onto those small photos for a while, and decided I'd finally give the project a shot. With the help of Jeff Watts at the Watts Atelier, I was able to project a larger version onto a small canvas, then paint an even larger one in time to present it to her for Christmas. I can't wait to see how she frames it!

Transforming "plein air" into a large studio piece

2009-12-16T17:27:00.000-08:00

Shown bottom center is my original plein air, which I've posted with the bigger "comp"(upper left) and even bigger (but just begun) studio piece (upper right) so that you can see the progression. I was happy with the plein air, but as I studied it and considered it for a larger studio piece I decided I wanted to try moving back from my vantage point so that I would see less of the ocean and more of the cliff sides that were so appealing to me that morning. Luckily, I had taken photographs so I had plenty of reference material. (The reason I would never begin a studio painting from photos alone is that photographs never capture colors as accurately as one can with a box of paints, but they come in real handy for this purpose!) I worked out a new composition on a 14"h by 11"w canvas panel to try it out, and I'm real happy with it!(upper left) My next project is to complete a larger (24"h by 18"w) studio painting and I have shown you here it's "first stage"(upper right) which is where I've transfered the image onto the larger canvas and have put in "basic color washes" to guide me and create a "base coat" for my finished work. As this painting progresses, I'll share images with you and hope to have it ready for the LaJolla Festival of the Arts in June!
1/7/10 Second to the top photo is a near completed section of the "ocean morning sparkle", and the landscape behind and surrounding it.
1/11/10 Here's the finished piece! 24"h by 18" wide. See it in person at the LaJolla Festival of the Arts in June! (I will post more info about that later)

Plein Air at Terramar Beach

2009-12-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

This 10"h by 8"w plein air in oil on masonite was done a few weeks ago. It was a beautiful morning in Carlsbad, and I found this area of beach captivating as I meandered just a little south of Tamarack. I was especially drawn to the rocky walls along the path, and the way the light shone on it's surfaces. As I painted, several people hiked by, some with their dogs. A few people inquired about the painting, and for them I apologize that it's taken me this long to post it! I am now working on a larger "comp", that will be worked into a larger still studio piece. More on that soon...

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

"The giver of every good and perfect gift has called upon us to mimic His giving, by grace, through faith, and this is not of ourselves." Saint Nicholas

"The I-5"

2009-11-05T18:34:00.000-08:00

This 14"h by 11"w oil portrays a view that catches my eye as the dogs and I cross over the I-5 from our home on our evening walks. I love the way the sun set casts a "glow" onto the curve of the interstate as it disappears to the south! This would have been a particularly difficult place to paint "en plein air" (in the open air) since it's quite noisy and space is limited, (not to mention those cars that just keep constantly changing their positions!) So, I opted to take a few shots with my new "point and shoot" camera and worked from them in my studio!

Why I'll always go back to Starbucks

2009-10-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

I painted this small still life in my kitchen one halloween years ago while waiting for little trick-or-treaters. It makes me think of the things I like about this time of year. The plastic pumpkin represents candy (which is the only reason for this season in my book, and always has been!), and of course my favorite "adult treat" brought to me by Starbucks, in my beautiful shiny Starbucks cup! I bring it out to decorate my home every halloween.

Now, for the endorsement: I recently laid to rest my former Starbucks "Barista" latte machine. During the YEARS that I enjoyed that machine, there were a number of times that I was "sure I'd got my money's worth", and had almost resigned to replacing it. Every time I had a problem with it, and I will say usually it turned out to be "user error", I would as a last resort, call Starbucks customer service. Each time, I would be in contact with a friendly and knowledgeable associate. Each time, the people at Starbucks patiently walked me through "trouble shooting", to solve my problem and therefore it was not necessary to spend any extra money on my part. Now, my machine was nearly 10 years old, and because I had allowed moisture to accumulate inside the walls, it was beginning to corrode. I recently decided to buy another (Starbucks) machine. My husband and I walked into our local store, where the store manager offered us a shiny new "Vanezia", the "floor model" for a discounted price. He also threw in a pound of espresso beans! When we unpacked the box at home, we discovered that a small piece was missing from the "parts list". Before we packed it back up and drove the whole machine back to our local Starbucks store, I thought I'd just see what would happen if I called customer service and asked them what my options were. After hearing my story, the gentleman I spoke with just very simply said, "Well, we'll just ship you out that part." Imagine that! (no hassles with, "We're sorry ma'am but you're going to have to show us a receipt for that purchase"...) In this world, where businesses have gotten so big that "customer service" is a thing of the past, it's refreshing to be treated like a valued "client" instead of a "faceless number"! Thank you Starbucks! p.s. the coffee cup pictured in this painting is also still with me, and I have dropped it in the sink many times in the past years. The quality of a Starbucks coffee mug always amazes me!

Two Little Friends

2009-10-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

I was meeting my painting group at the north end of Solana beach for a plein air painting excursion, when I noticed these two very busy little boys exploring the tide pools. I did feel a little weird taking their photo for reference, especially since there was not a parent to be seen! (but I just had to, since I found the scene so beautiful!) I shot a few photos, (before I notified the nearest life guard, who said that he had been keeping his eye on them) and developed them at home. From the series, I modified the placement of some of the waves and rocks for a more interesting composition, and here we have "Two Little Friends", 11"h by 14" w

Afternoon at Torrey Pines State Reserve

2009-10-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I met some good friends and fellow artists from Redlands for an afternoon of painting in beautiful LaJolla, California. We had a super time catching up and sharing the day! This 8"h by 10"w plein air in oil is on canvas board, and it's title: "Afternoon at Torrey Pines State Reserve"

Plans for La Cresta Event 10/4/09

2009-09-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I have been invited to show my work at the La Cresta event: "Taste of La Cresta" All proceeds from this event will benefit the development of the Recreational Trails in La Cresta. For more information, go to http://plateaulifestyle.com/Vintner.html. I will be bringing 10-15 pieces, including my most recent work, this 10"h by 8" w plein air painting done from the Hedionda Lagoon, here in Carlsbad. I'm looking forward to spending the afternoon in the beautiful hills of LaCresta!

Northern Coastal View

2009-09-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

This past week, I've been working on (among other things) this 11" by 14" studio piece, "Northern Coastal View". I began with a "transparent wash" of color, diluted with varying amounts of turpenoid to arrive at the correct "values". When I was satisfied with the placement and values, I applied pretty generous amounts of oil paint with more confidence. This is a cool trick I picked up from Robert Watts, and I intend to use it and explore it for everything it's worth!
12/09 This piece won Third Place at the San Clemente Fall Judged Exhibit!

Camping at Morro Bay

2009-08-06T15:16:00.001-07:00

These small plein air paintings are from a recent family camping trip to Spooners Cove, in Morro Bay, Calfornia. The "old me" would have turned up my nose at both of these views of the cove/visitor's center, since the mornings were mostly without sun (the light and shadow is what usually inspires me). However, since valuable time spent with one of my favorite plein air painters of all time, Mr. Robert Watts, I have grown to appreciate the value of an "unchanging" light source and the atmospheric perspective that is enhanced by these otherwise "dreary" days. I'm looking forward to using some of my husband's photographic reference to create a larger "studio piece" in the near future!

Camping at El Capitan

2009-08-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

These plein air paintings are from our 2009 annual camping trip to El Capitan State Beach, just north of Santa Barbara, California. Having camped there with my husband's family for many summers, the views continue to inspire me!

Riverside Banner Project

2009-07-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

Riverside Banner ARTventure

This post is a bit out of order, but having come across this photo, I felt inspired to share. In May, 2009 The Riverside Art Museum held "The biggest outdoor art exhibit and fundraiser ever held in Riverside!". Local artists submitted entries for banners to be displayed on the city streets for nearly two months. Here I am with my entry "Cheeky Orange Picker" at the silent auction held on May 28th. The banner was inspired by an photo my sister in law took for me of my darling nephew Clayton a few years ago, and a visit to the Historic California Citrus State Historic Park. It was great to be a part of this extraordinary event benefiting the Art Alliance of the Riverside Art Museum!

8th Annual San Clemente Plein Air Competition

2009-07-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

The week after moving, I took part in the San Clemente Plein Air Competition, and created 5 new works, 2 of which were submitted into the for jurying. San Clemente is a beautiful little beach community (as pictured here at bottom left from "The corner of S. Ola Vista and Avenida Del Mar" 8"h by10"w). One of my submissions(at top right); "San Clemente Potted Plants" was awarded Honorable Mention!

Carlsbad at last!

2009-07-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

The source for this small plein air piece (7"h by 5"w) is a short walk from our (new) front door, the "Agua Hedionda Lagoon", as viewed from Harrison Street above. Walking our dogs, Frankie and Matilda through the streets of our new town, I couldn't wait to unload them at home so I could capture it on canvas!

Tuscany Hills Clubhouse

2009-05-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

This 10"h by 8"w plein air in oil depicts the view from the Tuscany Hills Clubhouse. When painting it, as I listened to young voices and splashing, a couple were enjoying valuable time with their grandchildren. Another group of children were playing in the adjoining park. I was reminded of all the times in the past 12 years that my family has walked to the clubhouse in the sweltering heat, to find refuge here!

DeJongs Dairy

2009-05-07T12:14:00.001-07:00

Today, two of the plein air painting groups I belong to were gathering to paint in gardens; one in Riverside and one in Huntington Beach. I couldn't decide which one to join, because they were both a drive for me and I was late in getting started. I finally decided to "stay home" and paint at the dairy that has supplied my family with the best milk in the valley for years-"DeJongs." The dairy was very accomodating, and the cows presented a great value study! (for the most part they ignored me, after a brief show of interest) This 11"h by 14"w plein air in oil shows them at work at their feeding trough. They cooperated by staying relatively still for a while, then in a moment, I looked up and they were gone!

"Leaving Tuscany Hills"

2009-05-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

This 11"h by 14"w plein air oil painting captures a scene that has caught my eye for years, just as we've driven down Summerhill Drive, leaving Tuscany Hills. The trees in the landscape here, just west of the waterfall create an interesting foreground for the cool backgound of the Cleveland National Forest, with just a portion of the lake visible. Yesterday, I finally decided to paint it!

Fallbrook Art Association's Juried Show of Fine Art

2009-03-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

My 8" by 10" oil, "Some Things Never Change", won First Award in the Oil/Acrylic Category at the Fallbrook Art Association's Open Juried Show of Fine Art at the Fallbrook Art Center! A total of three of my oil paintings were selected to be a part of the show, two of which are plein air, and will be on display there until Saturday, April 11. The address is 103 South Main Street in Fallbrook. Daily hours are 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 3pm. I surely hope that you can make it to Fallbrook to see this exhibit!

Crazy Beautiful Girl

2009-03-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite subjects, our daughter Natalie turns 18 today! The source for this 24"h by 20"w oil painting was a photo taken in our sunny backyard, with a backdrop of the Cleveland National Forest in the distance. For 18 years, we have watched Natalie grow into a beautiful, creative, kind, talented and responsible young lady. Natalie has been a true blessing to us! Happy Birthday Natalie!

Captain II John Lawrence Presentation

2009-03-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my husband and I attended the 42nd Annual Firefighter of the Year Luncheon for the Los Angeles City Fire Dept. My oil portrait of Captain II John Lawrence, a nominee, was presented to his widow, Valerie Lawrence. It was a moving presentation by the Firefighters Association, where the elected Firefighter of the Year, Battalion Cheif John L. Nowell (clearly an exemplary public servant) , refused to upstage Captain Lawrence. It was apparent that Captain Lawrence had made an impact on many people, and it was a thrill to be a part of the tribute!

Rita Joins SOCALPAPA

2009-03-07T06:58:00.000-08:00

This 8"h by 10"w plein air in oil, "Keyhole Rock" is my latest, painted yesterday at the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach. My good friend, and amazing artist, Lisa Mozzini-McDill invited me to spend the morning there with her friends of SOCALPAPA (Southern California Plein Air Painters Association). When we left Lake Elsinore, rain clouds loomed, but in Laguna Beach we had a wonderful morning, with just a few clouds to include in our plein air sketches. I met some of the painters and enjoyed their hospitality (one of them even brought home made cookies for us!) I'm really excited to get started with them! Oh! and to purchase this painting, contact me!

PAAR 4th Annual "Paint Out"

2009-03-02T14:04:00.000-08:00

Last week was the 4th annual Plein Air Artists of Riverside "Paint Out", affiliated with the Riverside Art Museum. Each day of the week, the group met at various locations in Riverside to paint "en plein air" (in the open air). Pictured here are my original plein air paintings from the week: "DC3 at Flabob Airport" , 8"h by 10"w oil, which I am offering, framed, for $250, "Bonanza at Flabob Airport", 7"h by 5"w oil, which I am offering, framed, for$250 ,"From Mount Rubidoux", 7"h by "w, oil, which I am offering, framed, for $250, "Mount Rubidoux", 11"h by 14" w oil, which I am offering, framed, for $350, "Arches to the Mission Inn", 10"h by 8"w oil, which I am offering, framed, for $250. This series of paintings will be on display at my SOLO SHOW at the Arrivederci Roma (see earlier post) in Lake Elsinore through March 18th. The last photo shown is: "Coffee Depot", 14"h by 11"w oil on canvas. It was entered into the Riverside Art Museum's PAAR Exhibit that will run through April 18th, with an opening reception on Thursday, March 5th. It is offered at $350 through the museum.

Third Place RAM 4th Annual Paint Out "Quick Draw"!

2009-03-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 28th, I participated in the 4th Annual Quick Draw, affiliated with the Riverside Art Museum and PAAR (Plein Air Artists of Riverside). My painting, "RAM from Fire Station #1", a 10"h by 8"w oil won THIRD place in the judging!
In honor of the 80th year anniversary of the beautiful Julia Morgan building, 30 artists took part in the "quick draw". Each artist was to all paint the Riverside Art Museum from our chosen vantage point. We began at 9am, and quit promptly at 11:30am. This is a somewhat stressful scenario, to say the least! This painting, and the other artists' renditions will be displayed at the Riverside Art Museum through April 18, with an opening artists' reception on Thursday, March 5th. I will be there! I hope you can make it also!

Rita Pacheco-Solo Opening and Exhibit at Arrivederci Roma Restaurant through March 18, 2009

2009-02-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

This is a "one woman show"! I hope you can make it! This painting of a Historic Heritage Home in Riverside and many other original paintings will be exhibited in Lake Elsinore, at the Arrivederci Roma Restaurant located on Riverside Drive. The address is 31731 Riverside Drive, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530. Their phone number is: 951-245-7490 Here's a review I found on the restaurant:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g32595-d644700-Reviews-Arrivederci_Roma-Lake_Elsinore_California.html
The Arrivederci Roma will be serving wine at a discount that night! I hope you can make it. Reception will begin at 5pm on March 4th, and the exhibit will run through the 18th.

Lake Elsinore, Main Street

2009-02-17T15:17:00.000-08:00

"Lake Elsinore, Main Street" 40"h by 29"w original oil on canvas. This is one of my larger oil paintings that was displayed in the Riverside Art Museum's "Members' Show" last summer. I have always been inspired by the beauty of the architecture in our town, especially the Historic Cultural Center shown at the far left. When driving down Main Street, I always enjoy the colorful array of people and businesses, with the backdrop of the cool mountains of the Cleveland National Forest in the distance. I am offering this painting for $700.00, and will be donating 100% of the profit to the Temescal Canyon High School Dance Program. To purchase this painting, contact me through my website : www.ritapacheco.com

Telling a Story at Mystic Seaport

2009-02-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

Come See My Art "In Person"! I was fortunate enough to have this piece juried into the 40th Annual Multi Media Mini Show, on exhibit at the Redlands Art Association's Gallery and Art Center. The RAA's Multi Media Mini Show is unique in the Southern California area, as all the art is a maximum of 14 1/2" in any direction. The jurist chose the best 120 out of 380 pieces submitted. I know you will enjoy the show-please come! Exhibit runs through March 19, 2009. Redlands Art Association Gallery & Art Center 215 E. State Street, downtown Redlands Phone: 909-792-8435 Hours are: Monday through Saturday, 10am-5pm Open to the public. This a small oil painting (7"high, 5" wide) was inspired by a photo I took of my dad in front of the historic "Charles W. Morgan" at the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut in November of last year. He and I had journeyed to the east coast, to join his other Long Beach friends from the St. Joseph's Church Senior's Club. He was an encyclopedia of information and would share his facts with anyone who showed an interest. I feel fortunate to have witnessed him in a setting where he was so comfortable, (he had been building a sail boat for the past probably 15 years), and gave him so much happiness!

Visit to the Fechin House

2009-01-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

September, 2008- My husband and I traveled to Taos, New Mexico for a few days of painting workshops (me) and golf/photo taking (him). The workshop I attended was at the famous Nicholai Fechin Museum/former home, and it was taught by an amazing painter, Jeffrey Watts ( of Watts Atelier in Encinitas, California). To attend such an informative workshop in the former studio of one of the true "Masters" of our century was a memory and experience that I will forever cherish. For three days, we painted models from life dressed in authentic Native American attire in Mr. Fechin's spacious studio under north light. While we were there, a photographer from American Artist Magazine snapped photos of us. What a thrill to find a photo of Jeff and I on the front cover of the winter issue of American Artist/Workshop Magazine when I got my subscription in the mail! My work was also shown in the article!

Oma's back porch, Brooklyn, NY

2009-01-03T19:11:00.000-08:00

8"h, 10"w oil on canvas board

In 1976, my sister Anna and I took a flight to New York to visit our grandparents. We were 12(me), and 15(Anna), and we were to spend our "whole summer" there in Brooklyn. Our grandmother, whom we called "Oma", was really our caretaker, as our grandfather (Opa) was already pretty incapacitated by then, and not probably real happy about the arrangement. I remember him banging his cane (or a broom?) on the ceiling when my sister and I were listening to the small radio upstairs or laughing too loud. What I remember about Opa is:he was mostly blind, and wanted to tell long stories that I did not want to listen to. Oma made baked goods regularly, and bought fresh bread every day, which we enjoyed with REAL butter. And tropicana orange juice! Ice cream every night! She pushed one of those "granny carts" (the same kind I sometimes schlep around with my painting supplies) to the market every day it seemed. Also to church for Mass, which happened to be a long walk through the creepiest cemetery I had ever seen. (I loved it of course) We saw a few sights; one of them being a real live "flasher" (trench coat and all!) on the city streets-Anna and I never laughed so hard! We took the subway to visit some of the historic sights, and to the beach. Oma treated us to Radio City Music Hall where we saw "Logan's Run", and the "Rockette's". We saw a play on Coney Island but I can't remember what. Oma bought me my first pair of "platform" shoes and I wore them to death for months (they added three plus inches to my height!) We found a sweet "mother" German Shephard and her young pups living between Oma's house and the next. Anna and I saved some of our food for her, but Oma found out and wasn't happy about it. Anna must have taken the snapshot I used for this small painting on Oma's back porch.

Happy New Year PAAR

2009-01-01T10:14:00.001-08:00

This very small oil painting (3" by 5"!) depicts a small group of PAAR (Plein Air Painters of Riverside) of which I have belonged for a few years. At the close of 2008, I would have to say that being a member of this group has been one of the most enriching creative experiences of my career! We are of varied backgrounds, yet we come together several times a month to share in our appreciation of this age old practice of "plein air painting". The inspiration for this painting came from a cute picture that was taken of some of us before we painted at the DosLagos Golf Course in the spring of 2008. Can you guess who's in it? I sort of hope so since I used a HUGE brush (as I have been advised to do from one of my PAAR friends) and tried to capture the comaradarie of this lively group of friends, with as little "detail" as possible. (for me that's a real challenge) For myself, being exposed to so many beautiful and talented people has been a valued treasure for which 2008 will be remembered. Happy New Year and thank you for all the wonderful memories PAAR! I'm looking forward to another rewarding and fulfilling year as a plein air painter!

Our Son, AJ

2008-12-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

This 10" by 8" oil painting is from a series of small paintings I've been working on recently. Around the holidays, I just love to go through old family photos, and the one that inspired this painting caught my eye. Our son, AJ is turning 20 in a few days! (I feel like it was just yesterday when I was 20!-How could that be? ) AJ was an active child, and he just LOVED the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! (In my defense, We really did read to him also and he loved books, especially Dr. Seuss) But when it came to those mutant turtles and any kind of dinosaur, AJ was as "obsessed" as you can call any two year old. Here, my husband captured him in one of his "classic poses", where he is getting into the character of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. The photo was taken in front of our small apartment in San Pedro, but I chose to show AJ in an open "dreamlike" park, with the landscape receding behind him. Little did we know then, since we must have been blind, what an amazing actor AJ would grow to be. He is completing his second year at CSULB, as (you guessed it) a theatre major! He is an amazing, beautiful, talented young man. I can only imagine how he will amaze us all in the future! I am so proud to be his mommy. Happy 20th AJ!

From the Beginning

2008-12-29T13:01:00.000-08:00

As a child I grew up in a home full of creative and energetic siblings. My older sisters were my first mentors in drawing and painting. I was small in stature, not athletic, and I struggled with math, but I always knew I could draw better than any of my elementary school teachers! Art was something I excelled at, and so I held onto it with a passion and eventually was accepted into Art Center College of Design where I decided that drawing and painting was something I was never going to live without.

I married a wonderful man and soon after we had two beautiful and creative children. It was through my wish to stay home from work and care for them that I began my mural painting business. For 19 years I was content painting the chosen subjects and moods of my various clients. As time passed, I discovered that I longed to express my own ideas through my art; that mural painting no longer satisfied my desire to create.

Through various workshops, my involvement with the Riverside Art Museum, PAAR, and classes at the Watts Atelier, I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring other aspects of painting, including studio work on canvas, painting "en plein air", and portraiture. I've discovered that development and growth in any one of these venues has a direct effect on the others. I am always amazed at how, with every painting, educated art discussion, workshop, or class, there is always something to be learned or gained as an artist. Exploring new possibilities, breaking rules, (discovering months later through my own clumsiness why those rules exist), reaching breakthroughs where some skill has suddenly become attainable to me, and striving to become the artist God intended me to be is a great source of enjoyment and fulfillment for me!