(Above: A self-portrait by Melanie Pearson, who is the featured member artist of the Emerald Art Center for August 2022.)
By Randi Bjornstad
The Plein Air Painters of Lane County schedule two days a week for taking to the outdoors and pursuing their fresh-air artwork, which some of them finish on the spot while others take their works-in-progress back to the studio.
For the month of August, the group, known less formally as PPLC, will display some of their favorite recent pieces at the Emerald Art Center in downtown Springfield in a show called Best Foot Forward.
And for those who are interested in doing painting on location — whether just beginning or thoroughly experienced — the PPLC always welcomes new faces to the group, which is free to join and has no particular requirements for participation.
That’s not all that’s on display in August at the art center. The featured member of the month is Melanie Pearson, with a show of her paintings that span the palette of bright and vibrant colors and offer a liveliness of spirit and curiosity about both humans and the natural world.
As usual, there also is an exhibit of recent work by other member artists at the Emerald Art Center, as well as a display of artwork by students of the Dotty and Frank Light Summer Art Camp.
Current shows at the Emerald Art Center
When: Through Aug. 26, 2022
Where: 500 Main St., Springfield
Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday
Information: 541-726-8595 or emeraldartcenter.org
Pioneer Barn at Findlay Wildlife Refuge, by Euphemia Westley
