Ozark Artist Retreat 10/2024
Following in the tradition of last years popular Scenic Ozarks Artists Retreat (SOAR), this years event was a tremendous success, thoroughly enjoyed by the participating artists who came from all corners of the state of Missouri. This was planned to be a plein air (outdoor) painting event, based out of Ananda Kanan Retreat Center near Willow Springs Missouri, and highlighted by a day trip to Alley Spring, on the Jacks Fork River near Eminence Missouri. Retreat Director Michael McClure served as mentor to the group, leading group discussions and demonstrations, and answering questions from some of the artists. Delicious vegetarian meals were prepared by Yumi Jolliff, who also painted with the group at the spring.
The weather gods were smiling on us all weekend, providing perfect warm sunny fall weather, and the trees were at the peak of their glorious color. Upon arrival at Alley, and after a brief exploration of potential painting sites, the artists excitedly set up their easels to capture the atmosphere of the spring. After a satisfying day of painting, the artists returned to Ananda Kanan and decided to hold a critique session to appreciate and evaluate the results of everyones work. Sunday was a half day, and the artists decided to paint on location beside the Ananda Kanan pond, which was lined with a wide variety of trees of all shapes and colors. After a final meal and discussion, goodbyes and addresses were exchanged and the participants returned home.
Michael McClure Alley Spring Glow 11×14 acrylic
