I paint “alla prima” working on location and in the studio. My work centers on creating the effects of light found in nature. I paint landscapes and seascapes capturing the scenic vistas of the California west coast. In the studio, I work on larger salon sized paintings, from small ‘alla prima” studies done on location. The paintings of French, Russian, American Impressionists, and in particular, the early California Impressionists influences my work. Some of the artist’s that I admire include, Joaquin Sorolla, John Singer Sargent, Charles Hawthorne and Guy Rose. As a painter it is important for me to capture the unique California light at various times of the day and year, under a variety of lighting conditions.
What did the Fellowship or Laureate mean to you at the time you received it?
It was an honor to be chosen.
What do you do now? Has your art evolved or changed?
I design theatrical scenery for TheatreWorks of Palo Alto (27 years). My art has evolved to using new mediums and now I also create fine art using oil, watercolor and pastels. I?m a Professor at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills CA, teaching Art and Design with emphasis on Computer Art, Graphic Design, Stage Design, Drawing, Painting, 2D and 3D design. To see my production design, go to: www.joerageydesign.com
What is one piece of advice you would give to an emerging artist?
Artists continue to grow and evolve, so never stop studying and learning.
Briefly, how would you describe the state of the arts locally, as well as national and beyond?
Theatres are in need of more funding due to economic fallout from the great recession. The plein air painting and digital painting genres have exploded and many more artists can be found everywhere.