Art Showcase 2025

Alex S. Kosich

Artist Statement:
Captured this view while heading back from a hike to Black Mountain, just north of Red Rock Canyon State Park. Late autumn afternoon.

Alex S. Kosich

Artist Statement:
Early morning Plein Air painting of a beguiling composition of masses at Montana de Oro State Park.

Alex S. Kosich

Artist Statement:
This is perhaps my favorite spot to view Cummings Valley. I love the dominating shapes seen in the far range of mountains. The view changes dramatically depending on time of day and weather conditions.

Annette Hammer

Artist Statement:
My first trip to the east coast was at Murell’s Inlet, SC. The swamps were one of the fascinating areas we were privileged to see. I was amazed at the quietness of the swamp at dusk. Only birds wading in the shallow water picking up morsels and flying about, and alligators lurking in the waters were the occupants of the area.

Annette Hammer

Artist Statement:
Newborn lambs - so tentative and shy - cling to their mother as she recovers from the birth by eating nutritious grass. They are a double blessing for the farmers that plan ahead and estimate their worth. The sunlight streams in, highlighting their tender white coats. The main herd is close by helping to protect the little ones.

Annette Hammer

Artist Statement:
Mexico-land of enchantment. We set out to find the cliffs and canyons of the Rio Chama Valley near Abiquiu, NM. We found the Rio Chama river, a tributary of the Rio Grande, known for its carving of colorful canyons and rock formations. In August the river is placid, lending itself to fishing on a lazy summer afternoon.

Christopher Burgan

Artist Statement:
I was absolutely struck by the rich symbolism and iconography to be found in this stained glass setting. Mounted high on the wall of a barn, adjacent to an immaculate saddle tack room, it conveys not only it’s intended message of light and forgiveness, but simultaneously delivers the stern warning to any unenlightened field mouse that dare inadvisably enter into the presence of this barn owl.

Christopher Burgan

Artist Statement:
I am always struck by the beauty and calm of this body of water and landscape in Stallion Springs. Everything about it speaks peace to me. Specifically, the gentle heartbeat of the tall grass and foxtails rhythmically swaying along the bank of the calm water puts my mind at ease as I sit underneath the ever-changing clouds that dance above the mountains.

Christopher Burgan

Artist Statement:
In Turbine Serenade, I set out to capture the quiet harmony between nature and industry, where the subtle shimmer of the pond and the soft sway of trees meet the distant silhouettes of wind turbines. This scene, painted from a place of reflection and hope, invites the viewer to consider how progress and preservation might coexist. The warmth of the sunlight, the richness of the greenery, and the hum of energy just beyond the horizon all blend into a moment of tranquil coexistence—an ode to resilience, renewal, and the ever-evolving landscape around us.

Christopher Stillians

Artist Statement:
Late afternoon light washes over the Tehachapi hills. A lone tree and open vista call to me—it feels like the perfect moment for a ride, or a painting.

Christopher Stillians

Artist Statement:
Perched beside the barn, a weathered yellow tractor stands watch over the ranch. Its quiet strength and timeworn frame capture the enduring spirit of the land.

Christopher Stillians

Artist Statement:
As I explore the Tehachapi hills, the setting sun glistens on the road ahead. I’ve been searching for a scene, but the trail itself becomes the subject.

Damian Kinsella

Artist Statement: 
The heat now drained of the day, the soft beating of wings, the chorus of crickets, the memory of a distant bugling call. The flicker of lamplight rises on all that remains of the Great Western, lord of the hills, powerful and wise.

Damian Kinsella

Artist Statement: 
During the Great Depression, before the name Maynard Dixon became synonymous with the art of the west, this tall dark stranger painted his way through Tehachapi. His painting from the foot of Bear Mountain near Hart Flat, "Merging of Spring and Winter" is depicted here.

Damian Kinsella

Artist Statement: 
This California desert neighborhood was swallowed up in decades ago, and now all that is left are the tops of chimneys, the exposed beams of homes that struggle and gasp like someone sinking beneath the waves. 

David Gordon

Artist Statement:
This was meant to capture the peace and magic camping brings to our lives. 

David Gordon

Artist Statement:
Campfires bring out secrets and joy. Their  warm magic gives us a safe space to let others know who we really are.

David Gordon

Artist Statement:
This piece is a portrait of a shed flanked by powerpoles. It stands tall and proud against a blue sky and its apron of grey pavement.

Debra Holladay

Artist Statement:
I was intrigued by the warm, golden light flooding this scene as the rising moon signaled the end of a beautiful summer day in Tehachapi.

Debra Holladay

Artist Statement:
My Meyer lemon tree has provided an abundance of opportunities to showcase lemons in the still life. My inspiration came from the combination of saturated colors, reflections, and pattern of this handmade Indian rug.

Debra Holladay

Artist Statement:
The soft evening light and whispered hush of this scene, teaming with subtle threads of color, was the inspiration for this painting. Located not far from my house, I’ve been fascinated with this place over many seasons and times of day.

Derek Harrison

Artist Statement:
A young cowgirl is leaving town, making her way up the rolling hills of her CA ranch. With the moon rising in the distance as the sun sets, she is above it all. 

Derek Harrison

Artist Statement:
A cowboy and his horse pause to enjoy a midsummer moonrise over the clouds in the distance. The warm setting sun illuminates the warm color harmony of the vast western landscape beneath them.

Derek Harrison

Artist Statement:
This scene is set just as the sun passes through a grove of eucalyptus trees. This peaceful time of day creates wonderful colors that are soft and warm. The cooler notes can be felt on the woman’s face as the day comes to an end.

Derek Harrison

Artist Statement:
The soft pastels of the CA coast envelop this young woman as she drapes her transparent shawl behind her. She is as far west as the land will take her, providing a tranquil moment. 

Donald Towns

Artist Statement:
The contrast of the old barn in shadow against the bright and colorful golden hour light
in the background made for a wonderful artistic endeavor.

Donald Towns

Artist Statement:
Old wagon’s have always captured my attention. The rusty iron against the weathered wood makes me wonder, where have you been and under what circumstances?

Donald Towns

Artist Statement:
The San Joaquin Valley section of the Wind Wolves Preserve, is rest to my eyes. It’s soft moving grass and mountain curves as far as the eye can see was a call to my paint and brushes.

Douglas Castleman

Artist Statement:
This is a view of LA from a hilltop in the South Bay, just before sunset and just after an unusually cold storm passed through, where it actually briefly snowed in the South Bay, leaving the whole area exceptionally clear.

Douglas Castleman

Artist Statement:
A view of Upper Yosemite Falls, from Cookes Meadow, in the spring of 2023.

Douglas Castleman

Artist Statement:
North American P-51D Mustang, a frequent airshow performer, waits for its next flight.

Dwight Dreyer

Artist Statement:

Frank Serrano  

Artist Statement:
Who can resist painting the local ranch goats? They bring such life and character to my work.

Frank Serrano  

Artist Statement:
I came upon this scene of roaming horses while on a painting trip to the Vermillion Cliffs and it made such an indelible impression.  

Frank Serrano  

Artist Statement:
I love early mornings in the Sierra.  I especially loved seeing the mules grazing just beneath the Apenglow!
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Inga Poslitur

Inspirational Statement:
Amid the summer Sierras, pink peonies bloom in a white vase—delicate beauty framed by bright green grass. A moment of grace and stillness, where nature’s grandeur meets the quiet joy of a single, perfect bouquet.

Inga Poslitur

Inspirational Statement:
Spring awakens the desert: blooming magenta of a “beaver’s tail” cactus is glowing right next to delicate golden yucca flowers against blue distant mountains and standing Joshua trees. This is nature’s quiet celebration of renewal and resilience in the vast desert embrace.

Jackie Cleveland

Inspirational Statement:
Roses are my favorite flowers, unfortunately the deer love them too! They sneak in my yard to help themselves to the blooming buds in the wee hours of the morning, Seems the only way I can preserve and enjoy these fragrant flowers now is to paint them. 

Jackie Cleveland

Inspirational Statement:
Color is my passion and it's the colors of the golden hour, like this sunset over Cub Lake in Bear Valley Springs that inspire me to paint the most. 

Jackie Cleveland

Inspirational Statement:
My Mother has a cabin in Bass Lake and I have spent many happy days not only boating on the lake, but also floating in the water and soaking up the sun's rays in the  unspeakably beautiful hideaway, Willow Cove where our dock is located and this is the view from the dock. 

Jeanette Pauer

Artist Statement:
This beautiful old shed, a historic landmark, stands as a testament to the many changes in Tehachapi. It sits like a guardian, observing life as it unfolds. Bearing scars from its past, it still nurtures the most exquisite hollyhocks in shades of pink beneath its roof.

Jeanette Pauer

Artist Statement:
The Tehachapi Mountains are a vibrant tapestry of wildlife, hosting creatures from nimble lizards to majestic California Condors. Yet, it is the Elk that reign supreme in this realm. Their antlers, grand and regal, form a crown that signifies their royal status. With an air of dignity and indifference, the Elk commands respect as the undisputed King of Tehachapi.

Jeff Horn

Artist Statement:
"It is a beautiful drive from Bodfish to Caliente. This majestic view of Piute Mountain greeted me along the road. Nature's rhythms and beautiful color harmonies called out to be captured in paint."

Jeff Horn

Artist Statement:
The inspiration for a painting subject can appear anywhere in nature. Even the most seemingly desolate places present surprises. Tehachapi Willow Springs Rd. offered me this harmonious meandering scene..

Jeff Horn

Artist Statement:
"This massive rock outcropping and mature oak tree perch on the side of a hill. Anyone who has ever driven is road must know this spot well.”

Jennifer Burgan

Artist Statement:
The Bond captures a moment of quiet communion between a woman and a small herd of horses beneath the soft hues of a setting sun. Set against the rolling hills and golden grasses of a high desert landscape, the painting explores themes of trust, presence, and connection between humans and animals. The composition draws the viewer into the path of the woman, who moves without hesitation among the horses—suggesting a deep familiarity and mutual respect. With warm light and textured brushwork, I aimed to evoke a sense of peace and grounding found in these shared moments with nature.

Jennifer Burgan

Artist Statement:
In Saddle Up, I sought to capture the quiet strength and timeless ritual of the American West through the intimate act of a woman preparing her horse to ride. The gentle light washing over the landscape and the detailed textures of the leather saddle and denim shirt evoke a sense of calm focus and connection between rider and horse. This painting honors the tradition, labor, and grace embedded in rural life, while also celebrating the quiet resilience of women in ranching culture. Through realism and light, I invite the viewer to pause in this moment of preparation—both an ending and a beginning.

Jennifer Burgan

Artist Statement:
In Waiting for a Rider, I was drawn to the quiet stillness of a single horse at rest in its stall, its head gently leaning over the door in a moment of calm anticipation. The simplicity of the scene allowed me to focus on the soft light, the rich textures of the horse's coat, and the subtle details of the stable environment. This painting reflects the patience and loyalty inherent in these animals, as well as the bond that grows through routine and shared presence. With muted tones and a close composition, I aimed to capture a sense of serenity and quiet longing—an everyday moment, yet full of meaning.

John Budicin

Artist Statement:
This scene was overcast upon arriving. Within a few minutes the sun began to break through. The feeling was of a classic country road peaceful and quiet.

John Budicin

Artist Statement:
I am attracted to wash areas and when I saw this site there were no hesitations, it just had to be painted.

John Budicin

Artist Statement:
This ranch; even on an overcast day was inviting. The sliver of sunlight was a calling it just said “paint me”

Joy Gonzalez

Artist Statement:
The Tehachapi Loop seems so iconic that I was determined to see a train going around the bend. It took several trips, but this painting is the result.

Joy Gonzalez

Artist Statement:
A drive around the Tehachapi area at dusk revealed this intimate view of Tom Sawyer Lake.

Joy Gonzalez

Artist Statement:
When the artists were invited to the Merino house, I was amazed to see this collection of boots and horse-related paraphernalia. It suggested a colorful still-life.

Junn Roca

Artist Statement:
Where I live tall yuccas bloom in abundance that seem to whisper hymns to the sky.  The Yuccas or The Lords Candles are a favorite of mine to paint in the Spring.

Junn Roca

Artist Statement:
This painting evokes a moment of where the sea and spirit rise as one which I feel while creating this- a quiet surge of emotion and clarity, as if itself breathes with purpose and presence.

Karen Winters

Artist’s statement:
I often paint California’s Central Coast, but no place is more captivating than the 17 Mile Drive around the Monterey Peninsula. Its dramatic waves and rock formations always provide exciting compositions.

Karen Winters

Artist’s statement:
California’s sequoia forests always fill me with a sense of awe. The rhythms of the trunks, branches and foliage create intriguing designs in every direction. I particularly liked this scene because the background evokes a sense of mystery against the shafts of golden light.

Karen Winters

Artist’s statement:
Yosemite has been one of my favorite plein air painting destinations for decades. In any season, under any weather conditions, it’s always spectacular, and El Capitan is a powerful symbol of the park’s eternal beauty.

Karl Dempwolf

Artist Statement:

Karl Dempwolf

Artist Statement:

Kristen Freeborn

Artist statement:
There is something so beautiful about a young calf. They are full of energy, curiosity, and easily bring us joy. That is why I was inspired to paint The Young Hereford.

Kristen Freeborn

Artist statement:
I loved the peaceful, sweet face of the little white mule. And the way that the strong blue shadows were cast across his striking white coat.

Kristen Freeborn

Artist statement:
I was inspired by the exciting sounds, the light in the dust, and colors reflecting on the cattle as they were being pushed through the sagebrush to their next resting place.

Laura Wambsgans

Inspirational Statement:
Soft pastel light drapes the ocean as the sun slips below the horizon. This painting captures that fleeting moment of stillness and beauty when day exhales into night. The warmth lingers, inviting the viewer to savor the calm, reflect, and trust in the quiet promise of tomorrow’s return.

Laura Wambsgans

Inspirational Statement:
On a frigid winter morning, the locomotive winds its way through the snowy Tehachapi Loop, defying the elements with steady resolve. Snow blankets the landscape, muffling sound but not determination. This painting honors perseverance—reminding the viewer that, even in the coldest moments, the journey continues, strong and unwavering.

Laura Wambsgans

Inspirational Statement:
Side by side in an open grassland, these two young cows stand with curiosity and quiet affection. Best Buddies is a lighthearted portrait of friendship—capturing the joy of companionship and the simple comfort of being together. This painting invites a smile and a fond thought of our own best friends.

Lee Edwards

Artist Statement:
Cows are grazing under ancient oak trees as the sun rises over the valley and nearby hills, catching the tops of the trees.

Lee Edwards

Artist Statement:
In the summer heat of the Mojave Desert, a steep country road descends toward undulating hills displaying a colorful palette under scattered clouds.

Linda Brown

Inspirational Statement:
High in the mountains of eastern California, are the remains of an old miner’s cabin. They who sought gold and other minerals, built homes not for permanence or comfort, but just to protect  from the elements. Never meant for permanence, yet many still survive today.

Linda Brown

Inspirational Statement:
The land it worked has changed shape and changed hands many times, and this old workhorse took part in that saga and bore witness to the history of this land.

Linda Brown

Inspirational Statement:
If there is one plant that permeates our notion of the West, it is the Sage. Covering  vast expanses across mountains and deserts, its importance to the Natives and Settlers was undeniable. To me personally, just its wonderful scent can take me away to lonely places, quiet and calm.

Linda Mutti

Artist Statement:
I was driving to dinner and saw this scene, I slammed on the brakes and pulled over. It took my breath away and while it didn't last long, I was blessed to experience it. I worked from photos and my memory of the feeling.

Linda Mutti

Artist Statement:
This is a favorite painting spot of mine along the Owens River. Its feels very spiritual to me.

Linda Mutti

Artist Statement:
I visited a sanctuary for rescued wild horses. The sanctuary also had these darling donkeys. This little guy was a joy to paint.

Lyn Bennett

Artist Statement:
I like the way this scene portrays a man, his horse and his dog contemplating their work day.  Everyone is at attention and ready to go.

Lyn Bennett

Artist Statement:
I’ve always loved the energy of running horses so this scene spoke to me with this wild horse running into the Sun.

Lynn Attig

Artist Statement:
My painting of cowboy brothers heading home after a long day gathering cattle aims to capture the beauty and traditions of California ranch life, especially the people, animals and landscapes that make the West still wild. I imagined the scene and used several references to create the narrative I envisioned.

Lynn Attig

Artist Statement:
On a lazy spring day, I was painting en plein air at the Cuyama River when a herd of cattle moseyed into the water to have a drink. As they waded in, I added them to my painting, hoping to capture the essence of this beautiful landscape and peaceful moment.

Lynn Attig

Artist Statement:
My brother-in-law was sorting cattle on my Arabian horse, Grace, when a cow took off at a full run, and he raced after it. This painting will always be special because it represents Grace’s last ride--and her much-earned retirement to pasture after 14 years as our loyal ranch horse.

Mardilan Lee Georgio

Artist Statement:
These frisky youngsters stuck together in the ranch yard and curiously checked me out while I recorded them with my camera. Their affectionate bond, so sweet and clear, inspired me to paint them. Whether siblings or just friends, obviously they were besties.

Mardilan Lee Georgio

Artist Statement:
The magnificent color of the cactus flower calls one closer to danger, like the fabled sirens of the sea. One must take care to avoid the sting surrounding this beauty.

Mardilan Lee Georgio

Artist Statement:
This sunny spring morning on the farm begins with breakfast for the barnyard animals.The bountiful meadow provides for these fat and happy sheep.

Marian Fortunati

Artist Statement:
Airborne shows local Canada geese in motion just above water, wings open in varied stages of flight. Earthy browns and muted blues shape the scene, with textured brushstrokes capturing both movement and detail. I tried to focus on the quiet energy of natural flight and the moment where air meets water.

Marian Fortunati

Artist Statement:
While driving to a gathering in Tehachapi on a winding road in the hills above Stallion Springs, we came to a look-out point.  As we got out of the car to take in the setting sun we noticed a beautiful view over Tehachapi.   The view overlooked the valley and the sky was ablaze in the evening sky.  Another traveler had also stopped.  Apparently a local, he mentioned that this was the area where "lovers" liked to stop to enjoy the valley view and the setting sun. I thought of the spot as Lover's Point, but was unable to locate that name on a map, so it will remain in my memory.

Marian Fortunati

Artist Statement:
I painted "Whispering Cloudsong" to focus on the weight and shape of a single large cloud pressing into a clear blue sky. The scene below is simple—a dirt path through patchy grass, a farmhouse off to the side—grounding the sky’s presence. It came from a hike at Rankin Ranch, where the clouds and land held a quiet balance I wanted to capture. The process was about layering those cloud forms to create depth without losing their lightness.

Mark Pestana

Artist Statement:
A tribute to combined ground and airborne forces, relentlessly protecting lives and property. A modified DC-10 drops a load of retardant to create a defensive line as Kern County fire fighters move against an approaching wildfire. “Ten Tanker” delivers 85,000 lb in 8 seconds and up to a mile long.

Mark Pestana

Artist Statement:
I was inspired by this unique perspective while piloting this NASA F-18, awaiting our turn “at the pump”. A KC-10 tanker refuels an F-22 Raptor, accompanied by its F-16 safety chase aircraft, a regular procedure to extend flight time within the vast testing airspace of Edwards AFB.

Naomi Shachar

Artist Statement:
One of my first paintings of an Arabian horse was ‘Copper’ so named for its radiant colors. And then I met its offspring ‘Hila’ whose name derives from the Arabic - ‘Halo’ or ‘Aura of light’ – the perfect combination of colors and breed.

Naomi Shachar

Artist Statement:
‘Nike’ the goddess of victory is the namesake of this Arabian stallion with a pure breed blood line that goes back 14 centuries. Its proud and defiant stance caught my eye, heart, and brush.

Naomi Shachar

Artist Statement:
The mighty Longhorns and their reflections are thrusting forward leaving no doubt to any onlookers as to who has the ‘right of way’!

Nikita Budkov

Artist Statement:
This painting captures a quiet moment at the close of day, as a solitary deer moves cautiously through a sun-drenched clearing. The golden light of the setting sun filters through the dense brush, casting long shadows and illuminating the scene with a warm, fleeting glow.

Nikita Budkov

Artist Statement:
This serene landscape offers a glimpse into a tranquil valley where cattle graze peacefully along a winding stream.

Nikita Budkov

Artist Statement:
In this evocative scene, a solitary moose roams the lush wetland as the sky darkens with the weight of an approaching storm. Surrounded by dense vegetation and the quiet reflection of water, the animal seems both monumental and humble—an emblem of resilience in the wild.

Nita Harper

Artist Statement:
I sometimes have people from other parts of the country ask me if I miss the change of seasons. My answer is a resounding "No! We have seasons!"  Winter in California is full of color. Whenever I see the orange and red leaves of the sycamores, it's always a thrill and makes me want to paint them.

Nita Harper

Artist Statement:
Eucalyptus Trees are not native to California, but were introduced here in the 1850's during the gold rush by Australians. Today there are around 250 different species  being cultivated in California, and they have become iconic features of the landscape. 

Nita Harper

Artist Statement:
Oak Trees have been dotting the hillsides of California for 65 million years. I love how their branches twist and turn every which-way. They are great painting subjects.
No two are alike.The color can be deep green in certain times of the year, and at other times, they look dry and brown. They are always a challenge for me to paint.

Nora Koerber

Artist Statement:
This painting was all about the light that essentially, "elevates the common cactus to reveal just how beautiful and special it is.”

Nora Koerber

Artist Statement:
This small work was of a little bird that sat still upon a rock, posing for my photo of him. Fall color surrounds this mighty yet fragile little creature. It’s innocence simply captivated me and I had to paint him." (Mini)

Nora Koerber

Artist Statement:
I painted a flowering mass of cactus that meandered about a garden. To me, blooming cactus represents the little gems that lighten the sometimes banal or tough times in life. Where cactus forms meet background light, form dissipates, lending a sense of renewal, and awakening.

Pamela Phillips

Artist Statement:
I believe an artist could make a career out of just painting gourds, there are so many beautiful variations. I paired these two on a bright, white cloth. Oil/ 9 x11 in.

Pamela Phillips

Artist Statement:
A dark blue background and light blue vase gives focus to the lemons while also resonating with the subdued yellow pattern. Oil/20x24 in.

Pamela Phillips

Artist Statement:
A fluted, white china pitcher overlooks a rustic ceramic bowl filled with bright green apples atop a gently draped blue cotton cloth. Oil/20x24 in.

Peter Adams

Artist Statement:
“I am always excited to paint at Malibu when the surf is large and pounding. The sounds of the waves crashing, the exhilarating patterns of foam and spray, the stark contrast of light and shadows excite and enliven my imagination. I am able to totally lose myself in what I am looking at and somehow the painting seems to paint itself.”

Rich Gallego

Artist Statement:
Every Fall, Palette Creek explodes in a stunning display of Autumn color.  In this gouache painting I've captured a bit of it while trying to hi-light some individual brush marks.  In the end, this one is all about light and color.

Rich Gallego

Artist Statement:
I came across this property while driving toward Northern California.  Spring colors and an interesting arrangement of shapes are what caught my attention.  The scene harkens back to a simpler time which I found nostalgic.  That, and it was just so pretty!

Rich Gallego

Artist Statement:
This view of Escondito Canyon from The Pacific Crest Trail is always dramatic.  But, on a crisp November morning, with the Cottonwoods glowing yellow/gold against purple canyon walls it became irresistible!  I simply had to paint it!

Russell Hunziker

Artist Statement:
Early morning light along the dry ravine of La Canada Larga emphasizing the warm colors of the dry pasture and the cool shadow along the creek embankment as I winds it way through the valley

Russell Hunziker

Artist Statement:
While walking back to my car from a day fly fishing on the upper Owens River, near Mammoth California, I turned back to river to take a final look and certainly this view was an amazing sight. The first line of Neil Diamond’s song “Be” sprung to mind: “Lost on a painted sky..”

Russell Hunziker

Artist Statement:
Air and earth mix as the remains of a passing storm provide a dramatic scene in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Sandy Fisher

Artist Statement:
“Serenade in Sage and Lavender” celebrates the vibrant, unexpected beauty of the Fred Ives graptoveria succulent. Though not rare, its stunning array of colors within a single petal captures the essence of nature’s quiet wonder. My love for succulents drives me to share their delicate splendor through art.

Sandy Fisher

Artist Statement:
Inspired by a tranquil spring day in Golden Hills Nature Park, “Whispers on the Winding Path” captures nature’s quiet grace—blue mountains, spring trees, sage, and grasses guiding the soul inward. Amid suburban life, this oasis invites reflection, peace, and the timeless whispers of beauty we often overlook.

Sandy Fisher

Artist Statement:
“Beneath the Flaming Sky” captures a moment of pure magic I witnessed in the Arizona desert. A saguaro cactus stands tall against a fiery sunset, while a horse grazes peacefully nearby. This painting embodies the awe and serenity found in nature’s fleeting beauty, where time seems to stand still.

Sharon Weaver

Artist Statement:
Driving on a back road, I had to stop when I saw this grazing horse and the wonderful light. The setting sun cast long shadows over the golden fields creating long shadows and high contrasts. The scene held all the charms that are so plentiful in Tehachapi.

Sharon Weaver

Artist Statement:
A horse and rider have just finished moving the herd of cattle from one field to another. The grazing cows look on as the cowboy and dog finish up their day. It is the end of a long day and a Job well done.

Sharon Weaver

Artist Statement:
Light streaks across the lake and hits the trees as the sun rises from behind the mountains. I painted this from a photo taken during a camping trip into the Sierras. A short hike up the side mountain provided this panoramic view of Ediza Lake.

Sheryl Knight

Artist Statement:
This painting of Rock Creek in the Eastern Sierras is from a trip I took in October of 2024. The colors of the trees were amazing, and I loved how they contrasted with the dark water of the creek. My favorite was the light streaming though the trees!

Sheryl Knight

Artist Statement:
This meadow scene is from the Western Sierras and is one of my favorites. I love how golden grasses in the fall contrast with the dark evergreens in the distance. The narrow creek adds even more color and contrast as it meanders through the meadow.

Sheryl Knight

Artist Statement:
I have always loved a marsh scene, but to have a beautiful sunset makes it even more inspiring. This painting is from a photo I took in late summer in Northern California while driving to Oregon. The early evening clouds helped make the spectacular sunset and reflections in the water below.

Steven Lighthill

Inspirational Statement:
Delicate and organic nature of fallen leaves seemed created for the translucent quality of watercolor. After walking through piles of leaves each evening I collected several and set up a still life. The result was laced with muted colors, overlapping shapes, and a multitude of lost and found edges.

Steven Lighthill

Inspirational Statement:
Each year we would attend the Tehachapi Apple Festival, bringing home a bushel that would eventually find its way into pies for the holidays. This painting evokes the mo- ment we returned with our bounty.

Tamara Keiper

Artist Statement:
What a delight to the senses! The fresh picked lavender smelled divine, setting a perfect backdrop for the glowing, deep yellow-orange sunflowers. Setting the flowers in front of me, I just had to paint it! It was such a joy to do!!

Tamara Keiper

Artist Statement:
The “birthing center” is a low secluded pasture that’s out of the way, across a creek and by a seasonal waterfall, but it wasn’t quite sheltered enough. Missy, a heifer, found this out-of-the-way cover where her first calf would be camouflaged in the dappled light of the thicket.

Terry D. Chacon

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Terry D. Chacon

Artist Statement:
Painting this reminded me of the feeling of a morning in Tehachapi.  Nice, quiet and full of beauty.   The name was so appropriate, now all you need is a piece of Tehachapie.    

Terry D. Chacon

Artist Statement:
A special painting of the Tehachapi Museum.   I was taken with the beautiful California Poppies that welcomed all the people into the museum.  I also painted this museum en plein air and was happy to take the notes and photos to my studio for this painting.

Tina Chong

Artist Statement: 
River rustling; birds chirping as they settle for the night; evergreens scenting the forest; and late light spotlighting El Capitan. This is the Yosemite experience.

Tina Chong

Artist Statement: 
 Leaving Dorner Winery, the late afternoon light lent a glow to the grasses and hills across the valley.  I was entranced by the delicate colors of late afternoon. 

Tina Chong

Artist Statement: 
I loved the colors and strong lights and darks in this scene, plus the little ranch tucked away among the trees.

Vicki Pedersen

Artist Statement:
I love fall in the Owens Valley. I was fascinated by and wanted to show  the intriguing contrast between the colorful cottonwoods and soaring mountains in the back that I saw in one of my visits there in 2024.  

Vicki Pedersen

Artist Statement:
During one of my more recent trips to the Owens Valley and the Eastern Sierras. I saw this stunning sunset one evening.  I was struck by the incredible and yet subtle color shifts of the sky, clouds, and the distant mountains. 

Vicki Pedersen

Artist Statement:
I wanted to capture the cowboy and his pack horses in a personal way, working from the photo I took.  I chose to come in close to really see the varied expressions of the cowboy and each of the three horses. I especially love the forward focus and expression of the closest horse - the black one.  

Victor Riesau

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Virginia Kamhi

Artist Statement:
Tehachapi is magical in the winter when snow dusts the mountains and countryside.  This scene was from Arosa Road.  I was taken by the silhouette of this leafless tree in winter.

Virginia Kamhi

Artist Statement:
This once-upon-a-time beautiful house is across from the old railroad depot in Caliente.  There's a beautiful rustic charm about old, run-down houses.

Virginia Kamhi

Artist Statement:
When I was a child, we could see the Milky Way at night, but due to light pollution, it is no longer visible unless you travel to a place where it is very dark.  Many desert locations are relatively free of light pollution, so this beautiful array of stars may be seen in places such as Joshua Tree and the Mojave Desert.