Artist Kristen Olson’s landscapes on exhibit at Portola Art Gallery through March

Kristen Olson’s Classic California landscapes exhibit is on display at Portola Art Gallery from March 1-31.  A reception for the artist will be held on Saturday, March 9, from 1:00 – 4:00 P.M.

Kristen paints expressive, impressionist oil landscapes in a wide range of sizes. Through the visual language of her brushstrokes, she strives to capture beautiful light and the abstract patterns and shapes of nature.

“When viewers look at my paintings I want them to feel that they are looking at something that is exceptionally well done, beautiful and makes them feel good,” she says. “I put the love and emotions I feel toward the subject into my paintings and guide the viewer through the canvas with light.”

Kristen will also offer a Paint the Garden one-day workshop on Saturday, March 16 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, which includes a gourmet lunch at the Blue Garden Cafe. In the style of the impressionists, students will paint in an outdoor environment. The focus of the workshop will be on learning to see and interpret the subject with an emphasis on loose, expressive and colorful brushwork.

Kristen’s teaching method is structured to help students improve their artistic decisions in composition, design, editing, subject choice, value and edges. She will begin with a morning demonstration, in which she will share her thought process and painting techniques. Students will then paint with her coaching, as she moves from easel to easel, providing individual attention throughout the day. This workshop is open to beginning through advanced oil, acrylic, gouache and watercolor painters.

Photo of Kristen Olson by Frances Freyberg

Zinfandel Sunset (2013, 14×18″, oil on linen) by Kristen Olson