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2008 Heritage Art Paint-off Recap
The 2008 Heritage Art Paint-off was a big success for the second straight year. Nearly 200 people attended the outdoor event, which grossed nearly $35,000 in art sales. The money raised will benefit the stewardship work of the Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC) and the Capistrano Valley Conservancy (CVC). Renowned artists from across the nation participated and showcased their exceptional skills in the plein air art style of landscape painting. Onlookers watched in awe and anticipation as the artists raced to create masterpieces inspired by the classic beauty of the Historic Irvine Ranch Park in under two hours. A total of 23 paintings were purchased during the one-hour live auction. "I was delighted that the Paint-Off was such a great event and enjoyed by all," said Mrs. Joan Irvine Smith, great-granddaughter of James Irvine and the inspiration behind the event. "The goal of this event was to make people aware not only of the beauty and quality of these contemporary paintings, but also to let people know that our beautiful and fragile California environment and history needs protection and care." The annual Heritage Art Series also includes an Exhibition and Sale Gala at the Oaks Farms on May 17 during which paintings will be available for purchase. Tickets for this event are currently on sale at www.cvconservancy.com and include the opportunity to purchase art pieces that have been painted over the last several months by established, professional plein air artists as well as meet the artists themselves. The annual Heritage Art Series is a result of the leadership and vision of Mrs. Smith, an active patron of the plein air style. The Paint-Off was organized and run by IRC, CVC, and OC Parks with the help of dozens of volunteers. For more information visit https://www.irvineranchwildlands.org/heritageart2008/. 
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