Summertime outdoor celebrations

A bit of a disclaimer: I prefer allergy-free sports (watch on TV) and allergy-free arts (go to galleries and shows). By exhibiting indoors, I am somwhat assured of what the weather will be and not deal with rain or heat above 80 degrees. So for me to be part of a show that was held in a park was very unusual.

On August 22, Ridgefield, Washington celebrated it's 100th anniversary with what was a large community party, including: early morning walk/run, parades of old cars and tractors, ice cream socials, fashion show, kids activities, historical cemetery tour, ongoing entertainment on the park's stage, etc.

And yes, 'Art in the Park.' Presented by Ridgefield Art Association, artists' work was viewed within an open white arena under tents procured from local utility group.

This event was special! The community's pride was seen in the festival participants from the friendly waves of walkers as paintings were delivered just after 7 AM to the smiles of event volunteers at the day's end.

Good job, Ridgefield!

Award winner!

Title: 3 pears: 3

Watercolor, 10/2008

Image: 10" x 14" Mat/frame: 16" x 20"

Over the years I've wondered if the arts community sees county fairs as a viable exhibit venue. After doing research for an artistic resumé's content and layout style, I started to see that many nationally recognized artists got their start and began their awards list with those received at fairs.

Since last summer I'd only received a couple of 'Honorable Mention' awards. Not what I'd consider sufficent to be called an 'award winning' artist. Now that has changed! This painting received first place in the semi-professional section for water media. The check that came with this placement was more of a gesture of good will than of substance - shall we say it paid for the gas running back and forth to the fair grounds.

Paintings on the move

This week I delivered two watercolor paintings to the Clark County Fair - Tiger: the lump and 3 pears: 3. Probably won't find out if I won a ribbon until I pick them up on the 17th.

Also this week I became a member of the Department of Revenue. Yes, I'm now licensed as Crimson Painter and Bobby Forbes, Artist. The branding can begin in earnest.