Jean Myers, PSWC

by Pam Comfort

Jean Myers has been a PSWC Regional Representative for about five years. Our conversation with her takes place shortly after she received news that her painting submitted to the Bold Brush contest was awarded Outstanding Pastel Painting.

What has been your experience regarding painting with others, rather than painting alone?

I think they are both important to me. When I paint alone, I become deeply focused on my connection to the landscape and it’s very rejuvenating. When I paint with others, there is camaraderie as we decide where to set up, compare some new art supply, discuss our successes or frustrations, etc. I love painting alone but sometimes I need the connection and friendship with others.

What are the advantages of gathering with other artists?

Painting with other artists helps me to have accountability. If I set a date to paint with a friend or PSWC artists, then I have to ignore that little voice that says, “oh never mind, you don’t need to go today.” It helps keep me going forward. Painting together is also a good safety tactic as there is more safety in a group and when someone needs help setting up or possibly forgot an item, we can lend a hand or share our supplies.

What kinds of regional events have you had, or do you plan to have?

I have planned and led paint outs in the Southern California region parks, beaches, and even a plant nursery. Some of the locations we’ve painted include King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, Rancho Sierra Vista Satwiwa State Park in Newbury Park, Carpinteria Bluffs overlooking the ocean, Ventura Harbor and Marina Park in Ventura, Sea Side Gardens plant nursery in Carpinteria, and historic Camarillo Ranch. Sometimes the hardest part is choosing where to go because there are SO many great options in Southern California! In 2023, I am hoping to plan paintouts in the Orange County area for members who live farther south.

How has being a Regional Representative impacted your practice?

Overall, being a representative has been great for me! I like researching possible locations and planning. I have a lot of freedom to choose what events I want to create.

What advice would you offer to other artists interested in group paint-outs, paint-ins, critiques, etc.?

When planning an event, be sure that you know about facilities nearby (bathrooms, etc.) or any potential safety concerns related to the area. Look for locations with good parking. Be aware of the possibility of high use on certain days.

I hope you will jump right in and attend an event. I am trying to organize one paint out a month that I post to our PSWC Facebook page a week or 10 days beforehand. If it’s your first time painting outdoors, know that everyone is friendly and supportive. Or maybe you’ve been painting a long time, then come join us and make new friends! Please feel free to message me with any location requests or paint out ideas. Also, you could be a representative for your area, too!

From the website: Jean grew up in St. Joseph, Missouri with animals and nature in abundance. Summers were spent riding horses, swimming and yearly trips to a cottage on an island in Ontario, Canada. Her varied and visually rich experiences shaped her desire to express herself as an artist.

After receiving a BFA in Graphic Design, Jean worked in advertising but eventually became interested in developing as a fine artist, so she began exploring different media and taking art workshops. She enjoys all media but works primarily in soft pastel doing studio and plein air work. Her visual style has strong value contrasts and vibrant colors. Jean has enjoyed taking art workshops with Jim Wodark (oil), Terri Ford (pastel), Michael Obermeyer (Oil), Michael Hernandez (gouache), and Rita Kirkman (pastel) - all to whom she is grateful for their influence on her work!

In 2018, Jean achieved her Signature Artist status with the Pastel Society of the West Coast and enjoys exhibiting and showing her work. She heads up regional plein air painting events for the club and recently, she became the Workshop Coordinator, scheduling artists to teach workshops and assisting with the details of virtual or in-person workshops.