Spring is one of my favorite times of the year.  This is when the days are longer and I have more time to enjoy my en plein air work.  Painting outdoors or “en plein air” takes me back to the joyous times I spent with my great grandmother.  I would sketch while she sorted beans and told me stories of her childhood.  We would spend most afternoons on her front porch sketching, sorting, and talking.  These days, I can easily spend several hours outside sketching and painting.  This is a perfect time to practice various compositions, create small studies, and enjoy the blooms of Spring.

In addition to creating, I have followed through with my commitment to support local artists by attending art events.  One of those events was the FOMO Museum Block Party presented by  The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Art, The Bechtler Museum and The Mint Museum.  This was the first time that these three museums collaborated for an event, and it was an enormous success.  My favorite exhibit was the Men of Change exhibit at Harvey B. Gantt Center which featured art pieces inspired by some of the African American men who were instrumental in creating positive changes for marginalized people in the United States.  Some of the men featured were Alvin Ailey, Julian Bond and Romare Bearden.   

The Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Center in uptown Charlotte, NC, celebrated their one year anniversary.  The VAPA center houses over 120 visual and performing artists.  During the celebration many of the artists studios were open so we could watch them work.   There were also a variety of performances and several panel discussions.  It was fantastic to see the city of Charlotte support this important space for artists.

Another event I attended was called “Art Drop” in North Charlotte. The Divine Barrel Brewing Company chooses a local artist group to paint a mural for their wall.  Then they invite the  public to witness the unveiling of the mural. This particular Art Drop included one of my Guild of Charlotte Artists friends, and she invited me to attend.  This event brought many local artists together to share this exciting experience.  The beautiful mural was painted by Namaste Artists Charlotte.

Be sure to follow me on instagram @tamarasfineartstudio or read my future blogs to stay up to date with the happenings at the studio.

Until next time.

Tamara