August 2, 2015
By Monica Fiscalini
Artists judge chefs each time they dine out, but how often do chefs get the chance to judge artists? Three Paso Robles chefs were given that assignment for the “Eat Your Heart Out” exhibit that runs through Feb. 23 at Studios on the Park.
Santos MacDonal of Il Cortile, Chris Kobayashi of Artisan and Laurent Grangien of Bistro Laurent selected one or more works from nearly two dozen artists for the show and donated gift certificates to those who created their favorites.
The Bistro Laurent Award went to Laurel Sherrie for a painting called “Three Pomegranates.” Il Cortile’s award went to Jeannie Mac-Dougall’s “Split Open and Tossed Aside” pastel, and Mindy Sisemore received the Artisan Award for “Don’t Eat My Grandma.” Sherrie and Sisemore’s oil paintings are pretty much on opposite ends of the spectrum. Sherrie took the classic approach with her pomegranate still life while Sisemore turned to the classics to imagine a frightening scene from “Little Red Riding Hood.”
Harold Spencer, one of the artists in residence at Studios on the Park, donated $500 for the Editha Spencer Memorial Award that went to Jeanette Wolff for “Fish Fry & A Cat,” a collage/mixed media piece. By the way, Wolff has a solo show at Cambria Center for the Arts through March 16.
Robyn Slakey carries out the appetite theme with several ceramic cupcakes sculptures. More than one child will be tempted to climb the tall one featuring stacked cakes. Ken Christensen tends to paint landscapes and exterior home shots, but he chose an interior for this show, a kitchen. Tom Peck wows with both a photograph and a painting.
It’s an enjoyable collection and the only juried show for the year. Artists are generally invited to exhibit or they apply for a solo or group exhibit.
“Our hope is that all of our exhibitions bring creativity to life with artworks that represent the talent and diversity of our community and beyond at a professional level in varied artistic styles and mediums,” programs director Sasha Irving told me via email.
The Paso Robles Art Association has its Show room Gallery within Studios on the Park and features monthly exhibits. Judging by the two large binders full of member artist bios, they won’t be running out of art to hang anytime soon.
Studios on the Park also offers classes for adults and children and work and display space for artists in residence. During my last visit, I en joyed talking to Bob Simola, one of five artists who make up “A Guild of Printmakers.” No matter when you drop by, you’re likely to find a resident artist who wouldn’t mind you observing and asking questions.
IF YOU GO
What: “Eat Your Heart Out”
Gallery hours: Noon to 6 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, noon to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Show runs through Feb. 23
Where: Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles
Contact: 238-9800
