A Breath of Plein Air is a current exhibit presented by History San José at the Leonard and David McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House featuring plein air paintings, painting in the open air.

The exhibit features 54 pieces by 25 local artists illustrating scenes of San José, Santa Clara or Silicon Valley.

From the History San José web site:

The art of plein air painting, a French word meaning “in the open air,” became popular in the mid-1800’s, with the invention of paints in tubes. Prior to that paint was made by hand and easels were less portable. As the popularity of natural lighting in painting increased, the French impressionists, and later the Russian and American impressionists, have set the stage as the outdoor style continues to be attractive. This is particularly the case in Santa Clara Valley, where the fair weather is often favorable.

Artists who’d like to paint outdoors are invited to attend Plein Air Days at History San José, on Sundays, May 4, June 15, July 20 and August 17.

The Leonard and David McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House opened in 2005, completely restored and transformed into an exhibition space.

History San José is a 14-acre park featuring a town atmosphere, with free rides on historic trolleys, exhibit galleries and 27 historic buildings.

A Breath of Plein Air
The Leonard and David McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House
History San José
1650 Senter Road

Friday – Sunday; through September 21
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Admission: Free
Parking $6.00

Related posts:

1. Los Altos History Museum
2. Lou’s Village Online Exhibit
3. Just when you thought it was safe to leave the house…
4. California Poets Festival