Juried Artists

I’m drawn to the challenge of portraying light at different times of day, using bold colors to evoke emotion. Oil paints are my medium of choice, and I combine palette knife and brush techniques to create texture and depth.

For me, interpreting the mystique of the landscape and human form on canvas is both exciting and fulfilling. I immerse myself fully in the process, with the texture and scent of oil paint providing the perfect means to explore our environment. Painting outdoors allows me to capture fleeting moments in history and nature, offering endless opportunities for growth and discovery.

The bright, scorching sun reflecting off buildings, a wisp of exhaust in the air, utility poles leaning every which way with wires holding them together, cracked pavement, gritty bricks, corroded metal bridges, cars crammed against curbs—these are the scenes that ignite Sarah’s passion. She sees rhythm, design, and form in the urban landscape: the everyday places we live in and travel through.

Sarah believes her urban landscapes mirror our own lives—the paths we walk, the choices we make, and the scars we accumulate on our unique journeys through the world.

A self-taught oil painter specializing in urban landscapes, Sarah has been a full-time artist since 2014. Before that, she spent 25 years as a scenic artist, painting for theater and opera companies from Wisconsin to Maine, eventually settling in the Delaware/Philadelphia area.

Sarah has won multiple awards for her plein air painting in regional competitions and has been featured in Plein Air Magazine.

A cum laude graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, Baran began his teaching career with the Baltimore County Public School system in 1976. Over the years, he gained recognition for his leadership, often guiding departments and developing innovative curricula to challenge aspiring artists. His courses have spanned a variety of subjects, including traditional painting, ceramics, and photography. Now retired from teaching, Baran focuses on painting full-time.

As an artist, Baran's passion lies in painting. He has participated in numerous exhibitions and competitions, with his work held by celebrities, dignitaries, and collectors across the United States and abroad. His pieces are displayed in businesses and galleries, further cementing his legacy in the art world.

Krystal W. Brown is an accomplished artist whose work offers a painted perspective of the world, inspired by her deep connection to nature and the healing power it brings. Her fine art has been featured in numerous prestigious publications, earned multiple national awards, and secured her NOAPS Signature Status.

Krystal is dedicated to sharing her knowledge with others, teaching workshops, and offering individual instruction to help artists discover their unique voices and creative potential. She believes that celebrating beauty through art allows us to find it in all things, transforming our experiences and bringing healing and blessings. This intention shapes every piece she creates.

As a painter, Krystal intentionally creates fine art oil paintings that capture the transformational power of beauty. For her, the creative process is a healing balm, with each stroke of luminous oil paints bringing life to the canvas and inviting viewers to reconnect with the world through her art.

I aim to create the illusion of detail in my paintings without painting every minute element. By using just a few carefully placed brushstrokes, I guide the viewer's eye to recognize familiar objects, suggesting rather than fully rendering them. This approach invites the viewer to participate in the artwork, interpreting the scene through their perception of the marks I’ve made.

A key aspect of my artistic practice is the mental preparation that happens constantly. I’m always observing my surroundings, imagining how I can translate them into a language of pigment and paper, allowing others to see what I see. Sometimes, a scene presents a clear idea that’s ready to be captured on paper. More often, inspiration comes from fleeting moments—a glimpse of atmospheric effects, the way sunlight touches a surface, or a specific element within a landscape.

With 60 years of painting experience, 45 of which have been as a professional artist, I specialize in plein air painting. My primary focus is on landscapes, marines, and cityscapes—sometimes incorporating figures—captured during my extensive travels across the U.S. and Europe, particularly in Italy and France.

I seek subjects that highlight the interplay of color, light, and shadow, which I interpret through an Impressionistic-Realist style. For me, painting is the bold and dynamic application of color that brings life to the subject. Color is the essence of a painting, and its harmonious application—whether vibrant and striking or soft and tranquil—creates the energy that drives the work. I often use a palette knife to complement my brushwork, adding texture and depth to my pieces.

Painting outdoors in all weather conditions not only satisfies the eye but nourishes the soul, helping me to see and feel the world more clearly and aesthetically. I am deeply inspired by the works of Willard Metcalf, Daniel Garber, Childe Hassam, Albert Pinkham Ryder, and Joaquin Sorolla, whose approach to light and atmosphere continues to influence my work.

David began his artistic career in college, creating posters for various groups and organizations. After graduating, he transitioned into art education, teaching at all levels, from elementary and middle school to adult education, and as an adjunct for homeschooled students.

David later pursued painting full-time, fully embracing Plein Air. He has traveled extensively across the U.S. and Europe, painting and connecting with fellow artists along the way. His work has earned numerous accolades, including an "Annie" Award for Two-Dimensional Art in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, first place in the quick draw competition at Easton Plein Air, and the prestigious "Mayoral" top prize at Art in the Open in Ireland, Europe's largest Plein Air event.

Ronaldo is a self-taught artist with 16 years of experience working in watercolor. He specializes in seascapes and cityscapes, drawing inspiration from artists like Castagnet, Evansen, and Tom Schaller. His passion for painting has been deeply influenced by their work, which has shaped his unique approach to capturing light, atmosphere, and structure.

Alex Eisenzopf, a lifelong sketcher, began his formal art education at a local community college before transferring to Pratt Institute in New York City. When financial constraints led him to leave, he continued his studies at Vassar College, where he focused on philosophy and fine art. While Vassar’s studio art program was less competitive, the Art History department and its collection were exceptional, providing him with a deep understanding of painting composition, though not necessarily the techniques for applying paint to canvas.

After college, Eisenzopf spent many years working in commercial art and illustration, traveling extensively through Asia and Europe to oversee product design and development for major corporate clients. Now a full-time artist, he has dedicated recent years to refining his drawing skills, honing his pastel technique, and participating in plein air events.

Eisenzopf currently resides in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina with his artist wife, Rokhaya Waring.

Serenity is at the heart of my work. I often hear how peaceful, serene, and calming my oil paintings are, and I’m grateful to hear that my art resonates with others in this way. Plein air painting is my 'happy place,' where I feel most connected to the world around me. The magic of racing out before the sun rises to capture the first light of day is a feeling I cherish deeply—it’s all about the light for me.

I consider a painting successful when it evokes a particular mood or feeling that allows the viewer to get lost in the moment. I am driven to capture those fleeting instances when light shifts across a landscape, creating a transient beauty that can never be fully replicated. My goal is to inspire viewers to see the world more attentively, sharing with them the peace, beauty, and reverence that I experience through my eyes as an artist.

As a plein air artist, I find that understanding the landscapes I paint creates a deeper, more personal connection to them. I often reflect on the 'Who, What, and Why'—considering the people who may have lived in or passed through these places—before I begin. This historical context helps me focus on the visual story I want to convey through my observations.

Living in an area rich with history—one that has not always been fair or kind—shapes my approach to painting. I believe that even a small understanding of a landscape's past creates a stronger emotional connection to its present. While I’m certainly drawn to the aesthetic beauty of a scene, I try not to be swayed solely by its visual appeal.

My goal is for my art to tell a story—capturing what the scene is now through my eyes, while inviting the viewer to ponder its past. I want my paintings to prompt questions about the people and events that shaped these landscapes, encouraging a deeper exploration of both the present and the history that lies beneath.

I am passionate about painting—about making marks, creating relationships with color and shape, and embracing the ever-changing process of artistic expression. I strive for my work to be fearless, constantly evolving as I explore new possibilities. Painting is not just an activity for me; it’s a friend that brings me joy and fulfillment.

There’s nothing I enjoy more than discussing value, shape, color, and the creative process with fellow artists. These conversations inspire me and help me grow, both as a painter and as a person.

My name is Sam, and I am a painter originally from Connecticut. My work focuses on capturing the emotions and atmosphere that everyday scenes and objects evoke. Through painting, I aim to communicate the quiet beauty and subtle significance found in the ordinary moments of life.

I am drawn to the immediacy of plein air painting, where the challenge of working quickly—often under unpredictable conditions—adds a thrilling element to the process. I find that when I immerse myself fully in painting, I can 'get out of my own way' and allow the scene to unfold naturally on the canvas. The experience of observing and painting directly from life is invaluable, offering a deeper connection to the landscape and a more authentic expression of the moment.

Hai-Ou Hou was born in Beijing where she received her B.F.A from Central Institute of Fine Art and Design. She earned her M.F.A. from Towson State University. She taught at the Hubei Fine Art Institute, China. Hai-Ou is currently owner and director of the Chesapeake Fine Art Studio.

To me, a simple black square represents a window into everything in the world—seen only in the dark. Light, whether natural or artificial, is the essence of form. Without light, there is no shape, only darkness—a blank canvas for endless possibilities.

Visually, light is what allows us to observe the world around us, revealing the contours and colors that shape our reality. Similarly, it is enlightenment that clears the shadows within ourselves, revealing deeper truths. Both the external world we observe and the inner world we imagine is illuminated by light, allowing us to share these enlightened perspectives with others.

In my work, light is more than a medium—it is the story I seek to tell. It is through light that I aim to create worlds, both seen and imagined, inviting others to experience them with me.

I was born in Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Nepal, where my love for painting began at an early age. I started my artistic journey with basic painting courses at Sirjana Contemporary Art Gallery in Kathmandu before evolving my own watercolor techniques through self-study. By seventh grade, my talent for painting was undeniable, and it has since remained my lifelong passion.

Currently, I am an active member of Falls Church Arts, Inc. (FCA), where I not only create but also teach painting classes. Every Saturday morning during the season, you can find me painting at the Falls Church Farmer’s Market. While watercolor is my primary medium, I also enjoy experimenting with oil and acrylics. My work has found a home in private collections across Nepal, the United States, Canada, India, China, and Europe.

Throughout my career, I’ve been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for my artwork, and I remain dedicated to exploring new techniques and sharing my passion for painting with others.

“Why do I paint?” It’s a question I often find myself asking. The answer isn’t profound—I paint because I have to. It’s simply what I do. It has always been this way. Growing up in rural western Pennsylvania shaped my perspective, giving me a deep connection to the landscapes that surrounded me. From as far back as I can remember, I’ve felt a compelling need to respond to the sublime beauty of nature.

My muse is light. I am always searching for that perfect moment when light, shadow, and form align in harmony. While I enjoy representing the world around me, I often allow my paintings to evolve beyond mere representation. For me, the act of painting is one of discovery and possibility—each piece is more of a distillation of the moment than a literal portrayal.

After over 40 years of painting, the wonder, excitement, and curiosity that first drew me to art still drive me every day. That, in itself, is a gift.

I am a Philadelphia-based artist, known for my vibrant urban and landscape paintings. My education includes studies at the University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and I’ve had the privilege of exhibiting my work and teaching for over 30 years. Throughout my career, I’ve participated in numerous plein air events, earning both regional and national recognition for my work.

Every painting I create is an exploration of joy and recognition—a moment frozen in time, a portrait of a place that invites the viewer to see it in a new light, with renewed appreciation. While I primarily work in oil, en plein air and from life, I often expand upon my field studies in the studio, developing larger, more complex compositions. The excitement of painting outdoors, racing against the changing light to capture a fleeting moment, is something I find truly exhilarating. It’s this energy and urgency that I aim to translate into each piece, creating art that brings pleasure and invites reflection.

Patrick McPhee effortlessly blends his deep love for the outdoors and fishing with his passion for painting. Growing up, he spent much of his childhood exploring nature and camping with family, experiences that have profoundly shaped his artistic style. After studying at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Patrick developed a strong admiration for the Hudson River School of painters, particularly their reverence for nature and masterful use of light.

Today, Patrick continues to refine his unique approach, focusing on capturing the serene beauty of the natural world in a realistic, yet evocative manner. His work often highlights majestic landscapes—mountains, rivers, lakes, and streams—imbued with a sense of tranquility and timelessness.

Driven by a desire to continually grow as an artist, Patrick’s work reflects his commitment to improving his craft while sharing his love for art and nature with others.

I strive to create art that resonates deeply with people, painting en plein air whenever possible to capture the spontaneity of life. My style and process are shaped by a unique perspective, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and landscapes of New England. The changing seasons and fleeting moments constantly influence my color palette and approach.

While watercolor is my primary medium, I am always exploring new techniques with oil, acrylic, and gouache. My creative process begins with sketching, where I focus on value and composition, before moving into color to evoke a specific sense of place and atmosphere. Above all, I aim to convey the transformative power of light in each piece.

In addition to being an artist, I’m a graphic designer, musician, and bogey golfer, living in Guilford, Connecticut, where I continue to be inspired by the ever-changing landscapes around me.

Robin Roberts is recognized for his landscape Plein Air work in watercolor, both in Plein Air and the studio. He lives and works in Ashland, OH. He
travels extensively, painting en plein air competitions in various locations including Easton, MD, Traverse City, MI, Knoxville, TN, Cape Ann, MA, and of
course, around Ohio and the surrounding states.

Pearl Regmi is a dedicated professional artist specializing in watercolor and oil painting. Originally from Nepal, he earned his BA in Literature from Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu before fully immersing himself in the world of visual art.

Since the mid-1990s, Pearl has been an active participant in national art exhibitions in Nepal, earning several prestigious awards in recognition of his work. His artistic journey has included solo and group exhibitions both in Nepal and the United States, where his paintings have resonated with audiences and collectors alike.

Now based in the U.S., Pearl continues to receive acclaim for his work, particularly through multiple awards in Plein air competitions—a testament to his ability to capture the fleeting beauty of natural landscapes. He is currently an active member of the vibrant art communities in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia, where he continues to grow and evolve his practice.

William (Bill) Rogers is a distinguished Canadian watercolor artist, currently serving as Past President of the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC), where he is an Elected Member. Bill is also a signature member of the American Watercolor Society (AWS), the Transparent Watercolor Society of America (TWSA), the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society (NOAPS), and the American Society of Marine Artists (ASMA). Additionally, he holds Associate Memberships with the Oil Painters of America and The Portrait Society of America.

Bill has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Casson Medal for Best in Show at the CSPWC Open Water Exhibition in 2009, the Di Di Deglin Award from the American Watercolor Society in 2019 for his watercolor portrait In Thought, and multiple Awards of Excellence from the Oil Painters of America, including honors in the 2016 and 2020 Eastern Regional Salon Shows.

His work has garnered international recognition and will be featured in the Royal Collection in 2025, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the CSPWC. Bill’s mastery of watercolor and his dedication to his craft continue to inspire art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Marjorie Shanks is a plein air artist known for capturing the beauty and essence of the landscapes, roads, and small towns that define central Louisiana. Her work is deeply inspired by the unique light, history, and charm of the region, but she also draws from her extensive travels to plein air painting events across the country. From coastal harbors to mountain vistas, and the character-rich towns she encounters, each new location presents its own distinct challenges and inspiration.

Most of Marjorie’s work is completed en plein air, where she immerses herself fully in the sights, sounds, and ever-changing light of the environment. She thrives on the energy and authenticity that comes from painting directly in the landscape, embracing the elements—whether it's the heat, bugs, or shifting weather—as part of the creative process.

Marjorie’s paintings reflect a deep appreciation for the landscapes she explores, each piece capturing a fleeting moment of natural beauty.

David Orrin Smith is a dedicated artist with a lifelong passion for drawing and painting. His journey in art began at the age of 13 when he was accepted into adult life drawing sessions at the Seattle Academy of Fine Art (now Gage), marking the beginning of his deep connection to figure work. From 2004 to 2008, he further honed his craft at Dartmouth College, and from 2008 to 2011, he studied at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design. In 2021, he continued his artistic growth by studying with renowned artist Tony Ryder at his Santa Fe Atelier.

David’s work is a reflection of his personal engagement with the world around him. As a plein air artist, he approaches each painting as a live performance—a collection of observations that document his presence and attention in the field. His focus is on capturing the transient effects of light in specific times and places, creating visual gateways to memories and shared experiences. His chosen medium of large-format watercolor allows him to push the limits of challenge, speed, and accuracy, while constantly experimenting with ways to connect his audience to the world he sees and feels.

David’s paintings are more than just finished works; they are a product of his ongoing exploration of light, color, and the fleeting moments that make up our world.

Amy Waldrop is a self-taught American Impressionist painter based in Clifton, Virginia. She views life itself as art, embracing both its joys and sorrows. Drawing inspiration from nature, she often immerses herself in the woods, seeking to capture the fleeting beauty of the natural world. Amy is not just interested in painting objects; her focus lies in painting emotions and the essence of moments. She believes each of her works carries a poetic spirit that resonates with the right audience at the right time.

A juried member of the Washington Society of Landscape Painters and Fine Art Professionals of Northern Virginia, Amy has exhibited in notable group shows at galleries such as Spiralis Gallery in Easton, Maryland, and Principle Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia. Her work is also held in private collections, and she accepts a limited number of commissions each year. In addition to her painting, Amy has been teaching in her studio for over ten years, sharing her passion and expertise with aspiring artists.

Raised in Massachusetts with deep-rooted connections to France, Waring’s childhood was shaped by a unique blend of experiences, from milking goats and playing the violin to camping across America. Central to her education was a daily practice of drawing from nature, a discipline instilled by her mother, a former student of the École des Beaux-Arts. This early connection to nature laid the foundation for Waring's artistic technique and passion.

After earning a BA in Art History from Princeton University, Waring spent two decades painting exclusively en plein air in Provence, France. Her work has been featured in over 150 exhibitions both in the U.S. and abroad, and she has earned numerous awards in plein air events and art shows.

Now based in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, Waring shares her life with her artist husband, Alex Eisenzopf, and their two whippets. While plein air painting remains close to her heart, Waring often finds herself drawn to capturing nature’s intricate patterns—whether it’s boats in a harbor, fields of flowers, or moving clouds. Rather than focusing on a single subject, she aims to convey an experience of atmosphere, motion, harmony, and the passage of time in her work.