Cross Pollination is the third annual Plein Air Paint Out hosted by Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG). On Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11, VBG will welcome dozens of local and regional artists to create original works depicting the flora, fauna, landforms and panoramic vistas of the gardens. Plein air painters draw inspiration by working outdoors in real time, allowing them to capture the changing details of weather and light on the surrounding landscape.
“Painting in the gardens each spring has become a touchstone for me. Every year the light, the colors and the energy of this landscape shift in subtle ways. Being out on the pathways with other artists reminds me why plein air work is so special. It’s a privilege to help steward this extraordinary place as a board member and to celebrate it as an artist.” Barbara Brown, VBG Board of Directors.
The event is open to artists at all experience levels. Students ages 14–17 are encouraged to participate with parental approval. Interested artists must register at venturabotanicalgardens.com/plein-air. The registration deadline is Wednesday, April 1 at 5 pm.
Garden visitors are invited to hike the trails and watch the artists at work. Admission is free on Friday; on Saturday, admission is free for members and $7 for nonmembers. Ventura Botanical Gardens is located at 567 Poli St. in Ventura.
An exhibition of the finished works will be held with an artist reception on Saturday, May 2 from 2 to 4pm. The exhibition will take place in the new Fernery (a short walk from the trailhead entrance) with parking available at the Merewether Welcome Center. Proceeds will benefit VBG and the participating artists.
VBG is a public benefit nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a world-class botanical garden for preservation, education, cultural enrichment and community engagement. The gardens celebrate the five Mediterranean climate regions and offer spectacular 180-degree views of the California coast and the Channel Islands. VBG planning includes community gathering spaces, training and research opportunities, and educational programs ranging from horticulture and botany to sustainability. For more information, visit venturabotanicalgardens.com or follow VBG on Instagram and Facebook.
