Fourteen artists returned to Harmony Hall with their completed works
during Plein Air on Sunday, August 23rd. Painter and event organizer Jessie
Taylor created a festive venue atmosphere at the front veranda driveway
where artists were treated to several display areas to showcase their work.
A range of styles and media were represented offering exceptional scenes
of Sloatsburg sites including the historic cemetery, The Old Sloat House
and Ramapo River views which harken back to images of the Hudson
River School of painting and the important artists who lived and worked in
Sloatsburg in the 1920’s and 1930’s such as Edith Varian Cockcroft.
Artist Rosanne Cerbo graciously attended as judge for the afternoon event.
Rosanne is a resident of Tuxedo, New York and an award- winning artist.
Her work was featured in 2019 South West Magazine, and she is a
member of OPA, Salmagundi, NOAPS and a signature member of AIS and
HVAA. “All subjects inspire her from portraits to landscapes.”
Awards were given in three categories:
1) Best in Show to Renate Wehmeyer
2) Best Landscape to Janet Lennon
3) Most Innovative to Abe Elgindy
Honorable mention went to Eric Stormes and Bonnie McGown. The popular
vote, determined by those who attended Plein Air on the day of event, went
to Jonathan Bator for his modern interpretation of The Sloat Tavern
homestead.
This year’s event succeeded in growing awareness of Plein Air and the
revitalized “Main Street Sloatsburg.” It was made possible by Rockland
County Tourism, The Sloatsburg Chamber and the ongoing dedicated work
of The Friends of Harmony Hall-Jacob Sloat House.
Thank you to all of the artists who came out to create during Plein Air 2020.
Your ongoing participation in Plein Air energized the village and brightened
up what has been a challenging year for all. As Ms. Taylor aptly noted, “I
believe art brightens up our lives! We all need a little bright spot in our
days, weeks and months as we move forward the rest of the year.”
Photos by Geoff Welch