Blog from The Studios of Garin Baker

Painting Brandywine

From the Studios of Garin Baker

Carriage House Art Studios
October 4th 2011

Painting on the Wyeth Farm, Brandywine, PA

Back in my studios and so thrilled to have spent all last week painting the amazingly preserved countryside of Bandywine and Chads Ford, Pennsylvania. Fun was had by many talented artists as we spent an entire week plein air painting in and around the stomping grounds of Howard Pyle, NC and Andrew Wyeth.  The inspirational landscapes are like no other across the US. Rolling hills, perfectly designed by nature spotted with the most amazing stone houses and picturesque farms. Truly a plein air painters paradise.

The culminating show and sale was juried by Frolic Wymouth, bradywine painter and close friend of Andrew Wyeth.  I was fortunate to win first place and best in show and my winning painting which was done in 2 hrs during in a torrential rain storm is shown at the end of this post.

Paul Casale & Eleinne Basa painting at King Range Property

I spent most of the week painting with Paul Casale and Eleinne Basa and Mark Ferina from California.

We also took a couple of side trips to visit the homes and studios of NC Wyeth and Howard Pyle.

Studios of NC Wyeth

Wyeth's studio has been preserved as he left it and is full of amazing inspiration and also quite informative for me seeing how in his later years he created a open space with rolling staircase for his mural works, Truly a treat for all those interested in the great story of one of America's most iconic artist, painter and illustrator. Not to miss, as well as the Brandywine River Museum.  Full of jaw dropping paintings and Illustrations done during the hight of the Golden Age. We were fortunate to visit during a full showing of Howard Pyle's work. Nice!

Mead Schaeffer                                                          detail, Hoeward Pyle

Pyle                                                                                   Pyle

Paul and I stayed and where hosted at an incredibly beautiful 250 acre farm and horse ranch full of rich history and the most beutifully constructed home and out buildings. A wonderful family who opened up their property in the most gracious way, inviting all the artists and supporters for truly memorable barbecue and party one evening.  Here just one shot of their porch with riding barn in the distance and the greeters of every visiter with barks and playful fun.

Here's another shot of Paul painting along side at Jaimie Wyeth's family farm. We finally caught a sunny day and my painting below done at King Ranch selected as Best in Show.

"Afternoon Clearing At King Ranch", Oil on Linen, 14"x 22", By Garin Baker

Best in Show, Brandywine Paint Out 2011.

Wouldn't have missed it and can't wait till next time!