It's all figurative

By Hayley Thomas

Artists have long since sought to capture and display the human condition, whether by pencil, paintbrush, chisel or countless other mediums. A new exhibition comprised of Paso Robles Art Association members will showcase diverse forms derived from life: Its joys, sorrows and many mysteries.

Each work explores what it means to be human with a lean toward the symbolic and emblematic. The show, aptly entitled “Figurative,” runs through Sept. 28 at Studios on the Park within the nonprofit’s showroom. About 30 artists have lent their expertise to the curious collection.

One particular artwork depicts an underwater human face. A boat is emerging from the figure. The result is thought-provoking and definitely figurative.

"We had about ten people in here looking at it already. We don't often focus on the human form-word is spreading about this unique show," said Paso Robles Art Association President Elect Barbara Brogan. The local artist works with watercolors, acrylics and ceramics.

About 75 percent of the works within the show have been sourced from San Luis Obispo County residents, but other PRAA members hail from different regions and states, according to Brogan. She underlined the importance of supporting the PRAA's annual Small Treasures show, which kicks off Nov. 12 this year.

"We sell eight-by-eight-inch paintings or small 3-D works for $100 each and we also have a silent auction of arts and crafts. It's our biggest fundraiser of the year and really keeps our organization going," Brogan said. The event will take place at Studios on the Park in Paso Robles, a place that Brogan noted as incredibly helpful to the arts community at large.

"We have a really symbiotic relationship, and it's great to have so many artists come together in a space where they can all interact," she added.

The PRAA also hosts the annual Arte de Tiza, to be held this year on Sept. 20 in Downtown City Park. The sidewalk surrounding the park will again be transformed into a lush and colorful artistic landscape as community members of all ages pick up their chalk and get to work. Funds from the event go toward the PRAA's scholarship fund for young artists. This year, "Park Cinemas has furnished prizes for a new chalk art award.

"It's a free event and a great way to get everyone out there drawing," Brogan said. "We include everyone from preschool to adults. It's so fun to see all the kids out there creating their own works of art."

For information about the Paso Robles Art Association, their upcoming "Figurative" show or the annual Arte De Tiza, visit Pasoroblesart.org.