Artist in Residence

Date: September 17, 2008
Contact: Michael Rupp, 831-389-4486 ext. 243

In conjunction with its year-long Centennial Celebration, Pinnacles National Monument is proud to launch an Artist In Residence (AIR) program. Linda Bjornson, a local stained glass artist based out of Aromas, CA was selected as the artist for this initial residency. Bjornson will be living and working in the park, creating stained glass art depicting park resources, while interact with the public and providing talks about her passion for art and experiences at the park. This initial residency will culminate in October, with future residencies planned for the spring of 2009.

“We are excited to welcome Linda and the local art community into Pinnacles. San Benito and Monterey Counties are blessed with a diverse and talented artist base, and working with them to showcase Pinnacles is a win-win situation.” said AIR coordinator Michael Rupp. “In true Centennial fashion, this program commences this year, but it is hoped to continue on for years to come.” continued Rupp.

Residencies last about 2 weeks, with the artist producing a few pieces of original work, depending on the medium. This program will ultimately involve numerous art councils, guilds and galleries in the process of selecting the artists and providing locations for display of their work. The hope is to create a solid base of stewards that help the park through their artistic endeavors.

In coordination with the AIR Program, Galeria Tonantzin in San Juan Bautista is hosting a Pinnacles Art Show from September 19th to October 12th. This month-long showing is capped by an Artists Reception on Saturday, October 11th, which coincides with The Condor Classic bicycle ride and the San Juan Bautista Gallery Walk.

All visual artists are encouraged to apply to future residencies. For more information on future residencies, and the application and submittal process, please visit:

www.nps.gov/pinn/parkmgmt/air.htm

or contact

Michael Rupp
831-389-4486 ext. 243
[e-mail]

For general park information, please visit www.nps.gov/pinn or call 831-389-4485.