Local artists, youth painters, and community members gather for a day of creativity, connection, and outdoor inspiration
On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the serene landscape of Earl Reservoir in Woodbury became a vibrant canvas for the town’s first-ever Woodbury Plein Air. Twelve painters, ranging from experienced artists to local high school students, captured the park’s sweeping lake and mountain views, winding pathways, and hidden corners of natural beauty. Though modest in size, the gathering of 50+ community members radiated enthusiasm, providing a supportive audience as painters shared techniques, collaborated, and explored their creativity in the open air.
The day’s participants included Sherri Alpert, Cree Suarez, Sue Lynch, Sam Crohn, Emil Figueroa, Alan Stricoff, Robyn Burkhardt, Lisa Encke, Danielle Lafayette, Rick Holbrook, and youth painters Jordan Lemons and Tanner Zohora. The variety of works ranged from delicate, detailed landscapes to expressive interpretations of light and form. Rick Holdbrook took home the Jury Prize for Best Painting with his elegant depiction of a dock on the lake framed by distant mountain views. Runners-up Danielle Lafayette and Emil Figueroa were recognized for their exceptional contributions.
In addition to the competition, the event included a guided plein air session for beginners, led by local artists from the Woodbury Arts Council, Tony McConico and Svetlana Askenazy, offering newcomers a chance to try their hand at outdoor painting. Competition judging was supported by Sarah Fornier Pierson, former Executive Director of the Wallkill River Art Center and longtime organizer of the Hudson Valley Plein Air Festival, whose expertise helped select the day’s winner.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a live performance segment during judging highlighted the talents of local artists Amalia, Shakti Naishadha, Jenna Rouchon, and Jackson Wernli. The performances offered an engaging complement to the visual art, celebrating creativity in multiple forms and further energizing the community gathering.
Community support was evident throughout, with thanks to Supervisor Kathryn Luciani, Town Board Members Brandon Calore, Sandra Capriglione, Teresa M. Luongo, and Kelly Rinaldi, as well as Joey Joseph Gianzero and the Woodbury Parks Department. Contributions and guidance from the Orange County NY Arts Council and producing partner Media Sutra helped make the day a success.
Reflecting on the event, artist and event organizer Manauvaskar Kublall said, “The response from both artists and community members was incredibly encouraging — not only in their enjoyment of the day, but also in affirming the need for creative spaces in Woodbury. This event showed us how much potential there is for connection, creativity, and celebration of our local landscapes. It also reminded us of the importance of protecting and preserving our local parks and land for future generations to experience and enjoy. We are excited to continue building this tradition.” Organizers plan to make Woodbury Plein Air an annual event, fostering continued engagement between artists and the community while highlighting the town’s natural beauty. Learn more about the next plein air and the work of the Woodbury Arts Council at www. woodburyartscouncil.org