Worldwide Paint Out Event at Landis Arboretum in September

ESPERANCE, NY (07/07/2009)(readMedia)-- The International Plein Air Painters Worldwide Organization (www.I-P-A-P.com) will hold its 7th Annual Worldwide Paint Out throughout the weekend of September 11-12-13, 2009. As part of this worldwide weekend event, the New York Plein Air Painters Mohawk Region Chapter will sponsor a "Paint-Out" on the grounds of the Landis Arboretum on Saturday, September 12 (Rain Date: Sunday, September 13).

This global event is expected to unite individuals and groups from around the world painting concurrently in locations around the world. International Plein Air Painters members reside in Brazil, Canada, Curacao, Ethiopia, France, Iran, Israel, Italy, Russia , Spain, St. Lucia, Sweden, Trinidad & Tobago, United Kingdom, and 41 of the 50 United States. Participants connect at the local level to showcase regional landscapes, endangered vistas, and to celebrate scenic outdoor views from around the globe.

Speaking on behalf of the Mohawk Region Chapter, Mary Beth Vought recounts a Paint Out at the Arboretum in May: "It was a delightful day for all of us who participated. With 548-acres, rolling hills, gardens, trails, wetlands, ponds, and noteworthy Collections, there is a lot to see and to paint there. We look forward to our return in September. We also reach out to all painters, some of whom may be unsure if they will enjoy it. They will love it; artists of all abilities are welcome. Simply bring a bag lunch, and paint on the Arboretum's spectacular grounds," she says.

"Starting at 10 AM, participants can park at the Meeting House, up the hill from the main entrance and reconvene there at 3:30 PM for snacks and an informal 'critique' to share the paintings done that day."

Arboretum Executive Director Thom O'Connor recalls the beautiful paintings presented to the Arboretum at the end of the May 9 Paint Out. "I was stunned at the excellence of the paintings; in fact, I had no idea that such artistry could be accomplished in an afternoon. The Arboretum was especially moved that some of the participants donated their works to the Arboretum's Garden Party auction."

About the Landis Arboretum

As the Capital region's Arboretum, Landis is a multifaceted natural jewel. It now encompasses 548 acres of trees, shrubs, old growth forest and, of course, breath-taking vistas, and memorable gardens. Long a destination of choice among Capital District gardeners, environmentalists, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, and birders, the Landis Arboretum may be one of the best-kept secrets of the northern Catskills.

The Landis Arboretum includes a nationally recognized collection of oaks and is registered with the North American Plant Collections Consortium (NAPCC). The Arboretum also is included in the New York State Route 20 Bluebird Trail, bringing even more birdwatchers to the site. The Arboretum's vast dark sky and wide horizons attract area astronomers to its meeting house and parking field for sky-watching events

The Arboretum embraces hundreds of outstanding trees and shrubs from around the world assembled on a 548-acre, privately held, former estate of its founder Fred Lape on his family farm in the Northern Catskills. Straddling Montgomery and Schoharie Counties, Landis encompasses expansive grounds with imaginative and well-maintained natural heritage collections, public gardens, and acres of natural areas, considered excellent for viewing wildlife in their native ecosystems.

As the Capital Region's Arboretum, Landis serves all residents in the extended Capital Region, which includes Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, and Ulster Counties. Many regular visitors to Landis hail from Western Massachusetts, the Berkshires, Westchester, and western New York State. A (501) (c) 3 entity, the Arboretum depends heavily of donations, grants, and fundraising events.

The Arboretum is located at 174 Lape Road in historic Esperance, NY. Within two miles travel distance from scenically designated Route 20 and the route I-88 corridor that links Albany with Cooperstown, Finger Lakes Regions and beyond, the Landis Arboretum is an accessible national treasure within easy reach of New York State's Capital Region. www.landisarboretum.org; info@landisarboretum.org; 518.675.6935.

To participate in the September 12 Paint Out at the Arboretum -- or to obtain more information -- contact Mohawk Region Chapter member Mary Beth Vought at 518-868-2807.