 |
| Canyon Light, Grand Canyon National Park, artist Richard Biddinger |
 |
Date: September 25, 2009
Contact: Bob Moore, 314-655-1600
Contact: Caitlin McQuade, 314-655-1720
WHERE: Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, Old Courthouse, 11 North Fourth Street, St. Louis, Missouri
WHEN: October 1, 2009 – December 1, 2009
WHAT: A temporary exhibit of 100 paintings of national parks opens at the Old Courthouse on Thursday, October 1, 2009 providing fascinating and gorgeous artistic impressions of the sites covered in the broadcast of Ken Burns’ PBS documentary, America’s Best Idea.
In a nationwide competition, these artworks were judged best at capturing the “essence” of the landscape, wildlife, and history of the National Park System. Forty-five different parks, trails, and memorials are represented. Family activities and ranger tours will explore park histories and artistic expression.
WHY: The National Park Service cares for special places. In the Paint the Parks competition, talented artists have captured the qualities for which Americans treasure and preserve these sites. From the well-known Grand Canyon to the lesser-known New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail, visitors will see familiar vistas through fresh eyes and discover new locales that may end up on their vacation itineraries. Meanwhile, the artists demonstrate masterful techniques in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, and colored pencil.
Paint America organizes this annual competition and exhibition in support of its mission to bring the arts to all people for the betterment of society. The free exhibit is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The paintings are available for purchase through the PaintAmerica association. Some proceeds from the tour are given to the National Parks Foundation. A percentage from paintings sold in St. Louis goes to the Jefferson National Parks Association. Visit www.paintamerica.org for additional information.
