Snow-capped peaks in paintings proved that 2025 was an unusual year at the Borrego Art Institute 19th Annual Plein Art Invitational. Taking advantage of the unique desert weather between March 3-7, fifteen master plein air artists created work, ranging from whimsical to sublime. Wild, wind-whipped skies encouraged inspiration and creativity—and the artists delivered.
California plein air painter Chuck Kovacic served as juror. First prize went to oil painter Lynn Mehta for “Valley Overlook,” which Kovacic called out for its unexpected vantage point and contemporary feel.
Jeff Sewell took second place with his oil painting “A Little Borrego Drama,” and Jason Li’s watercolor “Sands of Time” picked up third place.
Honorable Mentions went to Natasha Isenhour, Jim McVicker, Jim Wodark, and Richie Vios. The People’s Choice was awarded to Jason Li’s “Quiet Moment.” The final award of the event was the Artists’ Choice Award, with pastelist Natalie Richards receiving the lion’s share of votes. McVicker also won the Quick Draw.
“This year’s Plein Air Invitational was once again an exciting and successful event,” said event curator Kay Levie. “The vibration throughout the community prior to the event was palpable and, upon arrival of the artists, exploded into a week-long happening that engaged locals, visitors, art patrons, and collectors. I was very gratified to hear several buyers proclaim that they had purchased their first plein air paintings, the start to their collections.”
In addition to the paint-out and quick draw, artists Geoffrey Allen, Jason Li, Natasha Isenhour, and Toni Williams offered workshops to the public. Next year’s Borrego Art Institute’s Plein Air Invitational will be held March 2-6.
Learn more about the Borrego Art Institute at www.borregoartinstitute.org.
Editor’s Note: Join us for the 6th Annual Plein Air Live online art conference, featuring Kathleen Hudson, Kevin Macpherson, Kami Mendlik, and many more! The event takes place November 6-8, 2025, with an Essential Techniques Day on November 5. Learn more at PleinAirLive.com.
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