An Artist Inspired by the Elements

Even as a child, Pong Apinyavat was always certain he would be a painter one day. From the awards he has accumulated over his lengthy career in art, he obviously followed a straight path.

He takes on his paintings with the same amount of determination. “I choose an outdoor location and stay there until I finish the painting,” he said, describing plein air or on-location painting, the technique for which he is known.

Working with the elements

Apinyavat developed a fondess for still life back in his native Thailand, way before his paintings found their esteemed places in many private collections in the US, Asia and Europe.

That appreciation further deepened when he moved to the US in 1991. “I was amazed that there was so much beauty around here,” he said, describing the breathtaking seascapes and landscapes that he came across.

Atop mountains, by the sea or along coastal highways, the juried member of Watercolor West started painting and working with the elements.

“It’s a very unique work situation as I deal with the wind, sun, rain and curious onlookers as I keep on painting,” said the Simi Valley resident.

Regional connection

The plein air water-colorist will be the headliner this weekend, at the ART 91301 Then and Now exhibit, premiering on Friday, September 30 during the 7th Annual Reyes Adobe Days.

The local art exhibit is part of Pacific Standard Time (PST), a regional museum event and a collaboration of more than 60 cultural institutions, featuring California culture during the 20th century.

Sponsored by the Getty Foundation and Research Institute, PST is part of a concerted effort to showcase the influential art movements in Southern California.

“ART 91301 will tell the story of local art and culture, reflecting Los Angeles’ many unique art movements,” said Amy Brink, community services director, City of Agoura Hills.

Along with Apinyavat, fine artists such as Daniel Stern, Wes Van Dyke, Craig Morton, Debbie Green, Jim Rule, Douglas Tharalson, Barron Postmus, Beverly Lazor and Lilian Bleuze-Nelson will also be exhibiting in the adobe’s historic barn gallery.

Weekend of art and demos

The fine artworks will be on exhibit starting on Friday, September 30, from 6 to 10 p.m. during , the opening night event to the weekend-long festival. A suggested donation of $15 includes food, wine and beer samplings from local restaurants and caterers.

Throughout the weekend, Apinyavat will be giving watercolor demonstrations.

“It is my hope that others can also capture the beauty and many moods of nature like I do,” he said.

For more info about Pong Apinyavat and his classes, please visit: www.pongapinyavat.com