The Ohio Plein Air Society is one of the most active and dynamic plein air associations in the country, and their latest endeavor was an artist-in-residency program at a wildlife sanctuary.

"Still Standing," by Doreen St. John, 2015, oil on linen panel, 16 x 20 in.
“Still Standing,” by Doreen St. John, 2015, oil on linen panel, 16 x 20 in.
A painting from Robin Roberts during his stint in the Highlands Nature Sanctuary
A painting from Robin Roberts during his stint in the Highlands Nature Sanctuary

The residencies were funded by the Arc of Appalachia Preserve System and the Ohio Arts Council, and five members of OPAS participated: Debra Joyce Dawson, Christopher Leeper, Robin Roberts, Doreen St. John, and Bridgette Turner. The painters were juried in and given stipends for each week they participated. Dawson stayed at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary for three weeks, while others stayed for two or just one week. In all, more than 95 paintings were created during the residencies; all were on view for one day at the Appalachian Forest Museum, in Bainbridge, Ohio, and then many found their way onto the walls of the Bridgette Turner Gallery, in Columbus.

A typical scene at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary
A typical scene at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary
A painting by Debra Joyce Dawson from the artist-in-residency
A painting by Debra Joyce Dawson from the artist-in-residency
"Beautiful Day," by Doreen St. John, 2015, pastel on panel, 16 x 20 in.
“Beautiful Day,” by Doreen St. John, 2015, pastel on panel, 16 x 20 in.

5 COMMENTS

  1. What a beautiful opportunity. Some very nice works here.

    Is this event a re-occuring one? If so, is it open to out of state artists? I live in Montana, but have relatives in Ohio.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here