A Perfect Day for Painting
Photographs by Kathy De La Torre
The Saratoga Community of Painters, directed by Saratoga artist Judy Puthuff, is a group that meets weekly at various locales to paint in the plein-air style--painting outdoors using the light, atmosphere and surroundings at the time. The group consists of Saratogans, Los Gatans and a few residents of other nearby cities. Along with these outings, members compliment and critique each others' work, swap tips and learn about art techniques and history.
Recently, the group spent a morning in the Tait Avenue neighborhood of downtown Los Gatos, painting various things that struck their fancy.
One of the SCP's biggest exhibitions was two years ago, when its members' paintings filled The Gallery at Villa Montalvo. Members' artwork is also regularly displayed at Marjolaine Bakery in Saratoga.
Saratogan Nancy Patka sets up her paints along Tait Avenue. Other members of the SCP do likewise.
Carol Heeter of Saratoga sits back to examine the progress of her painting.
Saratogan Donald Geoffroy, 94, contemplates what color to paint the sky. He said he wanted to use something other than the standard blue.
Los Gatos, California Since 1881
Left: Donald Hunt of Saratoga finds a shady spot along Tait Avenue from which to paint the house across the street.
