Information provided by the San Benito Agricultural Land Trust. Lea este articulo en español aquí.
In November, San Benito Agricultural Land Trust (SBALT) hosted the Monterey Bay Plein Air Painters Association (MBPAPA) at the Nyland property in San Juan Bautista. Plein air painting, a practice dating back centuries, has become a cherished art form that celebrates the essence of nature through the eyes of artists. The term “plein air” is French for “open air,” and this style of painting involves creating works outdoors, directly capturing the beauty and atmosphere of the surrounding landscape. The importance
of plein air painting extends beyond the canvas, connecting artists and viewers alike with the profound significance of the natural world.
Landscape painter and MBPAPA Board Member, Michael Armstrong, organized the artists. Michael states, “Some of our finest painters took the challenge to start and finish a completed work over the course of a few hours at the property and created some really outstanding paintings capturing iconic scenes of the old barn, the tree studded hills, and the lovely pond with its reeds, reflections, and birdlife.”
SBALT Board Member, Bob Connolly, collaborated with Michael Armstrong on the event. He observed the artists’ time on the property. “The MBPAPA artists arrived with easels, paints, and different styles and perspectives, a diverse group of age and experience. All enjoyed a change of scenery from Monterey to paint a different landscape at the Nyland property. Some worked on the barn, or pond, or both. The day was warm and sunny, so everyone immediately started working with oils, watercolors, and pastels. The results emerged over the day. Weather conditions are a big consideration as paints react to temperature, light, and air movement. Dust and critters seem to want to be in the picture regardless of the artist’s intentions. Artists were friendly and engaging, eager to discuss their work, experience, and approach. I enjoyed hosting the day on behalf of SBALT and look forward to doing so again.”
The artists sold chosen pieces in celebration of SBALT’s 30th anniversary. Some of the pieces were donated to SBALT. Other artists shared a percent of the proceeds upon sale of a painting. SBALT is honored by their generosity.
Through direct engagement with the environment, artists and viewers can forge a deeper connection to the landscapes that surround us. Plein air painting serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing the wonders of nature that inspire and sustain us all.
To support SBALT’s work that connects people to the land, visit www.sanbenitolandtrust.org. For more information about the Monterey Bay Plein Air Painters Association, visit www.mbpapa.org.