Plein Air in U-City Gardens

Margaret von Kaenel wins second place in the second annual University City In Bloom Plein Air competition.

Plein Air in U-City Gardens at the University City Library will exhibit paintings of the top three winners in a month long exhibit beginning Wednesday, November 1 through Wednesday, November 29.

The Plein Air in U-City Gardens Exhibit at the University City Public Library www.ucitylibrary.org will host an artist reception on Sunday, November 19 from 2 – 4pm.

UCity in Bloom celebrated its second annual Plein Air Competition in conjunction with its annual Garden Tour on Sunday, September 24th. Plein Air artists were given a unique opportunity to paint or draw in the historic garden district of University Heights 1, just northwest of the University City Hall. This neighborhood is rich in history and 28 of its homes are part of the St Louis Historical Society’s Century Home Program. University Heights 1, which included a number of private gardens, Lewis Park, Rain Man Plaza and the Civic Plaza area around City Hall were all designated as painting opportunities for the competing artists. Participating artists began painting as early as 8a.m. with paintings being turned in for judging at 3:30p.m. At 5pm, all participating artists and the public were invited to a reception for the announcement of winners. This year, there was an additional category of high school artists in grades 10 to 12. Cash prizes were awarded for Best in Show, Second Place and Third Place. Non-cash prizes were awarded to Honorable Mention, People’s Choice and High School student winners.

Margaret’s 11-inch by 14-inch oil painting titled Three Muses won Second Place. Three Muses was painted in the front/side garden at 22 Princeton. Located there is a lovely gathering of three twisting trees that create a wonderful shade garden. A natural stone path leads into a small sitting area where one can enjoy cool shade on a hot day. Among the plantings are small whimsical sculptures that adorn each tree. Having won Second Place entitles Margaret to participate in the University City Library Art Gallery along with other winners for the month of November. Celebrating the Beauty of University City will be on display from November 1 – 30 located at the University City Public Library at the corner of Kingsland and Delmar Avenues in University City.