A little irony to the above title, as one of my very favorite subjects to paint are actually old, rural barns, like this one. “American Beauty” is a barn in Oregon, which could be anywhere “out west” where I live. I love to see these magnificent old structures, even as most are crumbling into oblivion or suffering the constant pressure of land development.

Far removed from the series of “out west” paintings are the more citified, but still gorgeous old buildings, gardens, wharfs, boats, and historic structures from the colonial to civil war eras “back east”, where I will be painting in June.

“PAINT ANNAPOLIS”, June 7-9
As one of the 5 alternates chosen to work among 30 regulars for this event, I will be exhibiting work at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts through July 15th. I will also be competing in “Dueling Brushes” the morning of June 9th. Complete details: www.mdhallarts.org

“PLEIN AIR RICHMOND”, June 16-23
Richmond, Virginia. This juried competition benefiting the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, has 47 artists from all over the U.S. chosen by M. Stephen Doherty, editor-in-chief of “Plein Air magazine”. Everett Raymond Kinstler, preeminent American portrait artist and painter, will be awards juror for this event, which is hosted by Brazier Gallery, in Richmond. A gala dinner and opening reception celebration, complete with a Richmond Symphony Orchestra performance culminates the activities on Friday night. I will also paint in “Fast and Fresh” (their version of a quick draw) competition, held on Richmond's famed Monument Avenue, Saturday, June 23rd. Web site: www.pleinairrichmond.com

PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP, NW Georgia, June 28-July 1
Looking across to the Blue Ridge Mountains and painting around historic Rome, Georgia . . . a spectacular place to work and learn . I will paint daily instructional demos and assist all participants at their easels. Space is still available - contact Wanda: wmack@northmarq.com

My wife, Judy, and I hope to connect with friends and art lovers while we travel around “way back east” through June!