600+ Artist Attend the Plein Air Convention & Expo

Artists, not only from the USA, but from many other countries, came to Monterey to attend the 2nd Plein AIr Convention. Eric Rhoads and Steven Doherty put on quite a conference! With over 60 master artist, some speaking, some doing demos and some assisting painters outside, there was something for every one attending. Eric continued part II of his Marketing Boot Camp from last year. How many conferences have you attended that the room is full at 6:30am? What Eric shared was valuable for all of us – from novice to pro. Eric was gracious enough to allow me a short spot to promote my 2013 Plein Air Odyssey and as a result I was able to capture some possible painting partners and suggestions for great places to visit. Thanks Eric!

We camped 10 miles north at Marina Dunes State Park and was delighted to find presenter Stefan Baumann and his partner one site down from us. Stefan, who is known from his weekly PBS series, The Grand View: America’s National Parks Through the Eyes of an Artist even gave me a couple of his DVDS! Saturday afternoon we all went to Asilomar State Park to paint. Although cool and windy, it was quite a site to see so many painters paint the dunes and shoreline. Dave met me there and took some great photos that you’ll find in my Scrapbook.

Point Lobos, south of Monterey is a fantastic place to paint! In fact, I chose to return there on Sunday instead of painting with the group at the pier and it was soooo beautiful that morning – just a little wind and blue skies made for a great morning. Overall, this conference was a great time to re-connect or meet new friends, get new information and be inspired for the rest of my journey.