RECENT RAINS SHOULD MAKE 18TH ANNUAL PLEIN AIR INVITATIONAL ONE OF THE MOST COLORFUL

By Jonathan Goetz

February 5, 2024 (Borrego Springs) -- The 18th Annual Plein Air Invitational in Borrego Springs, California promises to be a captivating celebration of art and nature. The event runs from March 4 to April 14, 2024.

While wildflowers typically start popping up halfway through February, the peak blooming usually occurs in March and continues through April. Given all this winter's rain this year's floral blooms in the Anza Borrego should be early and quite exceptional.

The invitational centers around Plein Air paintings, which capture the unique beauty and environmental significance of the Anza-Borrego Desert and the Borrego Valley.

Fourteen talented artists have been invited to create en plein air (outdoors) during the week of March 4 to 9. They’ll work with oils, watercolors, and pastels to produce captivating pieces inspired by the desert landscape.

Throughout the week, new artwork will be displayed daily in the gallery. You can witness the creative process unfolding as the artists contribute fresh pieces.

• Awards and Reception: On Saturday, March 9, from 3 to 5 p.m., the awards ceremony and reception will take place. It’s a chance to celebrate the artists’ achievements and immerse yourself in their work.

The invitational is curated by Kay Levie, ensuring a diverse and engaging collection. The 2024 Juror of Awards is Rick Delanty from San Clemente, CA. The lineup includes talented artists Geoffrey Allen, Nita Harper, Ellen Howard, Natasha Isenhour, Ryan Jensen, Mark Kerckoff, Margaret Larlham, Jason Li, Joe Mancuso, Jim McVicker, Natalie Richards, Stock Schlueter, Toni Williams, and Jim Wodark.