Leslie Landers – Page 36

Palm Springs Sketchbook

Spring 2023 is a stunner and it was a beautiful time to be in the blooming desert. I spent a week with friends exploring Joshua Tree, enjoying a poolside jazz event and hiking Indian Canyon Trails.

Here are watercolors from my sketchbook.

The first is a sunrise view from the hotel. The second is of a nearby historic adobe. The last two are from Indian Canyons.

I have visited the Palm Springs area many times. Still, this is only the second time I ventured into Indian Canyons which now tops my must do list in the area. The palm trees here are the only type that are native to California. There were ample spring wildflowers this year and with ample shade and water in the river it absolutely delivered on a full on oasis vibe.

I have traveled with these amazing friends each year (except for that first pandemic year) for decades so I will end here with a photo of them in Joshua Tree National Park.

Lupine Path

11″ x 14″ (sold)

I was expecting the beautiful spring greens but not the profusion of lupine flowers along the path at Rancho Canada del Oro located in the San Jose Foothills.

Pond at Quail Hollow

8″ x 10″ Oil on linen panel

Quail Hollow Ranch Park is a fun destination for painting and experiencing rural life in the Santa Cruz Mountains. I’ve painted horses, barns and farm equipment at Quail Hollow. In this piece, I’ve turned my attention to the small pond on the property.

Spring Arrival

6″ x 8″ oil on linen panel

Sparkling dynamic skies mark our early spring days. This painting catches such a moment at Shoreline Park in Mountain View.

Pescadero Convergence

9″ x 12″ (sold)

In looking at the waves come in while painting this piece, I was struck that they were coming from different directions. I later learned there’s a name for this … convergence waves.

Signs of Spring

It’s been quite of a winter where I live so for the first day of spring here are a couple of watercolors featuring early blooming quince.

Hang in there … we’ll be drying out soon!

Spring Awakening – California Art Club Exhibit

3/21/2023 – 6/19/2023

Four times a year, the California Art Club conducts an Excellence in Traditional Fine Art Competition. I am thrilled that Sarah Gianelli, editor of American Art Collector, chose my piece “Sailing Toward Alcatraz” for inclusion in the online showcase.

Fresh Works – Harrington Gallery Pleasanton

4/1/2023 – 6/10/2023

After taking a two year pandemic-related break, the Firehouse Art Center is hosting their 11th edition of the “Fresh Works” juried art exhibition. Ashley Voss, Director of Voss Gallery in San Francisco, is the juror for the show and I am so very happy to have my painting “Heading Out” included in the show.

The Harrington Gallery is a beautiful art space inside the Firehouse Arts Center in Downtown Pleasanton at 4444 Railroad Avenue.

Companions and Locals – Coastal Arts League

3/30/2023 – 5/15/2023

Three of my paintings have been selected for inclusion in this juried painting show that will be on view at the Coastside Arts Gallery in Half Moon Bay at 300 Main Street. The gallery is open from 11:00 to 4:00 except on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.