In the early 1970s, a group of plein air artists formed the nucleus of what became the Santa Cruz Watercolor Society when they began to create a bulletin that published where they planned to meet. The organization has grown and networked and now includes opportunities for all watercolorists whether or not their interest is focused on plein air painting.
The Watercolor Society itself meets once yearly for a business/social gathering. It generally hosts a yearly invitational show and occasional auxiliary shows. The Society also supports a monthly newsletter (currently looking for a volunteer editor) providing information on member activity (where work is being shown); exhibit, workshop, paint/travel opportunities; and contact for plein air and critique group activity.
The Plein Air Group traditionally met weekly for outdoor painting. This had been a casual outing of dedicated painters. It has not been functioning since pre-COVID. Individuals who wish to revive this activity, please contact the SCWS through this website.
The Critique Group presently meets on Tuesdays at eleven thirty at the Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway, Santa Cruz. It also is accessible through a Zoom link. For Zoom access, please contact Aimee through this website. The Critique Group’s core consists of artists who have varying directions and goals. All levels of experience are welcome. The main objective of the Critique is to give an immediate audience for new work and to provide helpful dialogue. The group also acts as a network of technical information and sponsors bulk ordering of supplies.
Collectively, we are a friendly group wishing to develop personal and professional opportunities in watercolor. We invite you to join us.
Critique Group Activity
The Critique Group has been setting up weekly challenges since instigating Zoom during COVID. Susan Koch sent this piece to Critique Group last Tuesday looking for advice on completing it. Look for the update next Tuesday (Aug13, 2024):
August 14: Instead of submitting rework, Susie presented this: