Backwood Oaks, 10x8 + show news.

Backwood Oaks, 10x8" Pastel on sanded paper ©Brenda Boylan

Just back from the Pacific Northwest Plein Air art reception at the Columbia Center for the Arts. The energy was high and so were the temps. It was great to see all the work that had been created over the 5 day event and all was hung so beautifully. This year's plein air artists worked hard in the high temps, some not so grateful that summer had finally arrived in Oregon. As for me, I'm glad for the warmer temps...this coming from a California gal, but still can't wait for the Fall colors to come. I entered into the gallery reception and was greeted by an honorable mention for "Road to Mosier". Can you say "SMILE"? This year's juror was plein air artist Jim Lamb. Thank you Jim!

On our way back home from the show we took a circuitous route, via the family farm in Creswell, OR. We passed on the eastern side of Mt. Hood with it's fires and yellow smoke, stopped off in Bend for a cold drink and then back in towards the Eugene area where Creswell greeted us. I painted this one (above) from the yard looking south. Loads of smoke in the air made for some hazy color.

Me next to my work "Road to Mosier"

Then more newsworthy news...

Last week I was called by the Pastel Society of America office to notify me that my piece "Curbsides" won the Pastel Society of Hawaii Award in the 39th Annual PSA show. I'm really humbled by this placement as it hangs in the National Arts Club alongside the likes of Daniel E. Greene, Jimmy Wright, Barbara Groff, Duane Wakeman, and more. I am torn that I will not make the awards ceremony this time because of the many bowling balls I'm juggling right now. What a trip that would be though, eh?

"Curbsides" 12x9" Pastel on sanded paper ©Brenda Boylan

So, to put it straight, it's been a really great week. Woo hoo!