Capturing the Spirit of Place

Written By: Donna Rhodes | Issue: July 2024

Bette Crowder, accomplished watercolorist, has been the Artist Liaison for the Cashiers Plein Air Festival the past eight years.

Plein air (outdoor painting) is her passion. It connects the artist to nature and has produced some of the world’s finest artists. Among Bette’s favorites: Renoir, Monet, Homer, Wyeth, and Sargeant.

Bette’s paintings begin with the excitement of a scene. On completion, she’ll decide if it’s a gift, for display, for sale, or for sheer joy. Her paintings start with sketching views on a drive through a rural countryside, or travels abroad, attending plein air events, or simply enjoying the beauty that nature provides.

Time, weather, terrain, and other constraints challenge the plein air artist’s ability to complete their work. Often Bette takes photos and finishes work in her studio.

An eager student, Bette feels there is always more to learn and, thus, improve. The excitement of trying new techniques inspires continued studies with many internationally-known artists.

Bette is a Signature Member of the Florida Southwest Watercolor Society, member of the Florida Watercolor Society, Art Center Sarasota, and Tampa Regional Artists.

Recently, one of her paintings was selected for display in the treatment center of a well-known cancer facility.

She said, “That’s better than any monetary award, knowing that the painting might make a patient’s day a little brighter.”

Working as the Artist Liaison for the Cashiers Plein Air Festival, July 15-20 at The Village Green, Bette meets many of our country’s top plein air artists.

She says, “That, in itself, is inspiring. I’ve discovered being a professional plein air artist requires a lot of perseverance, determination, and a basic love of nature, architecture, and the amazing unexpected.”

This year Bette’s obtained permission for participating artists to visit secured areas rarely-seen. This will generate unique, distinctive paintings for the general public’s viewing.

In addition, she’s encouraging leaders of children’s summer activities to involve their participants in the Quick Paint event, held on Saturday, July 20. Hopefully, observing artists paint might generate interest in plein air painting. Visit cashierspleinairfestival.com for more information.

Bette says, “Volunteer time is just one way of giving back to the community that has brought so many years of happiness to my family, all of whom have enjoyed the many activities at The Village Green.”

Jeanie Edwards Fine Art Gallery, located on the hill of 4th Street in Highlands, features Bette’s available gallery paintings. Contact Bette at [email protected] or (941) 928-0655.