The Events of Los Gatos Plein Air

In 2004, Elke Groves, then President of the Los Gatos Art Association, approached the Los Gatos Morning Rotary Club about the concept of an art show and they agreed to assist with this collaborative effort. Together they formed a group of volunteers to plan, coordinate and manage this inaugural event. Under the leadership of Elke Groves the inaugural Los Gatos Art Fest of 2004 at the Testarossa Winery was a big success.

Los Gatos Plein Air 2009 is a juried art show featuring some of the best artists that paint in the plein air tradition from across the United States. Nestled against the majestic Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos has lots to offer the plein air artist. With its historic Victorians and pastoral vistas to the sweeping Oak-studded canyons and quaint storefronts sprinkled along Main Street, the artist is enchanted with a medley of showcase opportunities for painting.

2009 Event Details

Our 2009 show begins on Thursday, May 28 at 8:30 a.m. The artists arrive in town at the Los Gatos Museum, register, and collect their canvases. Once oriented to the environs, the painting begins. Public viewing and visiting with artists during this time is strongly discouraged.

Painting continues on Friday May 29th. Framed artwork is turned over to the committee members no later than 7 p.m.

Friday evening, May 29th, Gala Plein Air, California Café, Old Town. California Café is well known throughout the Bay Area for its outstanding and innovative cuisine. Dine in the gorgeous Montebello Room, a warm and contemporary space overlooking the patio and just right for schmoozing with the celebrated artists. This is a ticketed event and includes a sneak preview of wet paintings while enjoying cocktails and dinner to follow. For ticket information, contact Pamela Murphy at: pmmurphy5496@yahoo.com. Reserve early.

Saturday, May 30, the public and artists gather at historic Old Town for the awards presentation, silent auction and live auction. Admission is free. Enjoy hosted wine and hors d'oeuvres and mingle with the artists while viewing the treasures of the town as depicted on canvas. Listen to live music and bid on work for purchase at the silent auction portion of the day. Those works that have eleven or more bidders go to live auction beginning at 6 p.m. Also on hand will be students from our local high school to demonstrate their artistic abilities.