'Magical locations' featured in Plein Air anniversary show

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23: Some of Bermuda’s most celebrated current artists are to exhibit works they have created over the years of the island’s historical homes, hidden gardens and “magical island locations that many Bermudians are unaware of.”

The show at the Bermuda Arts Centre in Dockyard celebrates ten years of the Plein Air painting group.  It will showcase work from from Chris Marson, Rhona Emmerson, Emma Ingham, Chris Grimes, Heidi Cowen, Michelle Smith, Diana Amos, Margaret Potts, Molly Godet, Marlene Jenson, Jill Raine and Graham Rendell.

The works include a mix of watercolour, oils, acrylics and mixed media.

The Plein Air group started ten years ago in the backyard of respected artist Jonah Jones and has grown to a busy group of local and international painters. There are over 190 members on the mailing list and they meet at various locations around the island to paint.

Heidi Cowen of the Bermuda Arts Centre said: “Helpful critics at the end of the sessions, led by Chris Marson, really help each artist to continue to grow and develop their personal styles. Getting out and creating magic each Sunday is a great way to see and capture Bermuda at its best, right on location. Bermuda light and colours and textures are a total inspiration to us all.”

The Plein Air locations are a mix of private and public locations across the island.

Rhona Emmerson is the group leader and organizes all of the locations.

She explained: “If I see a beautiful property as I am passing by, I leave my card with a note asking if the group might come to paint on location. I find that nine times out of 10, home owners are usually delighted to have us.”

The show opens this Sunday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm and the Frog and Onion pub will be offering 20 per cent discounts for gallery attendees. The show runs until June 22.

• The Arts Centre is open daily from 10am to 5pm.