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“THE leading school field trips and Cork & Canvas classes held at BRAHM.

The Plein Air Festival has become very popular, Garonzik said, with 120 artists from 15 different states participating in 2022. The artists spend three or four days painting scenes in Blowing Rock, then sell their work at the festival finale held at BRAHM. The museum keeps a commission from the sales which contributes to the art education fund.

Garonzik said attending the High Country Plein Air gatherings keep her accountable and help her make time for painting. “I live in a small house and have children, so I don’t get out very often on my own. I keep my art supplies in my car and set aside Wednesday mornings to paint with this group,” she said.

Two hours into that day’s session, many of the artists were applying final touches to their paintings when the sun

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finally broke through the fog.

There were cries of delight as rich colors emerged in the valley behind the Blowing Rock and light danced on the surfaces of the rocks and trees.

“Ohl! Look at that! Oh how beautiful!” exclaimed Abernethy. “I’ve been waiting all morning for this!”

The clearing fog revealed bright sunlight and billowy clouds set against a brilliant blue sky.

“This.” Abernethy said. “This is why we do it.” t

Interested in joining the group? Painters of all skill levels and visitors are always welcome. Request to join through the High Country Plein Air Facebook page or contact Kim Abernethy through www.KimAbernethy.com.