Leaving Las Vegas

[Richard Robinson]

"Painting at Bonnie Springs" 10x8" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson

Today was the last day of the Plein Air Painting Conference in Las Vegas. We all painted at Bonnie Springs just 10 minutes drive from Las Vegas. I think there were about 500 painters there today and we took a group photo to send to Guiness World Records for the most people ever painting outdoors in one location, which is a pretty cool little slice of history...

It's hard for me to write about this event. It's really not possible to do it justice in words. When I gave the opening speech a few days ago I began by telling everyone how hard my heart was beating just walking up onto the stage, partly from nerves, but also because I felt as though I had finally found my tribe. It was even truer than I knew at that moment. Over the past few days we have shared our passion for outdoor painting and that simple act of sharing has brought to each and every one of us a real sense of community, of belonging, of friendship and of joy. The experience has moved me deeply and it feels as if this is the beginning of a big change for me.

I don't have time to even write about all the highlights of the convention, but I will post some images below to give some idea of what went on. By all accounts the convention will be held next year on the Californian Coast (can't remember where) and I would love to be there for that too.

Tony Pro, Jeremy Lipking and Alexey Steele.

Ken Auster http://www.kenauster.com/

Scott Christensen.

Who knew it would be freezing cold? Not many.

Rockin it old school with Cory Trepanier.

When your ass gets itchy, scratching it on a post makes it feel better.

The next few days I'm headed for the grand canyon and zion park to see what I can see. Adventure awaits!

[Joanne GarrardBarton]

Hi there Richard;

thanks for all of the commentary, and inspiration. Now we will all have to get to work and tackle some of the photos you sent us. You will love Zion National park. It's sensory overload! If you think you've seen the red rock country, just wait till you see Zion! The Grand Canyon too, late afternoon, or first thing in the morning the light is best at those times. Have a great visit, and be safe. cheers Jo

[Linda Hearn]

Thanks, Richard!  You really are an inspiration -- and excellent teacher --can't wait to see your reaction to Grand Canyon!  and Zion -- that's a beautiful part of the world

[Xiao Li]

Hi Richard.  Thank you for sharing your experience of the big Plein Air Painting event with us!!  It is so much fun to read them, and the photos are amazing.  Eventhough you said "It's hard for me to write about this event. It's really not possible to do it justice in words". but do write them down.  Memory is not trust worthy. They will get blurry in time.  Only writings last.

[Patricia Genever]

Richard,
I have learned quite a bit, just by reading both yours and other arrtist's comments about Plein Air Painting.  The bug has bit me too...  Thanks for sharing...  :))

[debbie piro]

AWESOME yeah, it all sounds like a fantastic time. keep us posted...:)

[Dirk Rampling]

Awesome!!!!!!

[diane boucher]

Thanks for taking the time Richard Been hanging out to hear snippets of news and views :-)