Oregon-born painter Ray Strong (1905-2006) captured the essence of the Western landscape in a long career dedicated to what he termed “Earth portraiture.” He was also known for his innovative dioramas, social activism, and leadership in art education. This exhibition, organized by the Grace Hudson Museum and guest curated by Strong expert Mark Humpal, with assistance from former Museum curator Karen Holmes, is the first to focus on his Northern California subjects. Drawn from private and public collections, displayed pieces range from large-scale murals to miniatures. A small exhibit of Grace Hudson landscapes complements Strong’s work.
Earth Portraiture: Ray Strong’s Northern California Landscapes has been made possible by the generosity of the Sun House Guild and Grace Hudson Museum Members.
Image: Indian Summer (1940) by Ray Stanford Strong.
Exhibition Dates: Friday, September 6, 2024 to Sunday, January 19, 2025
Exhibition Programs:
Friday, September 6, 5:00 to 8:00 PM
Opening Reception
Explore our latest exhibition, talk with co-curators Mark Humpal and Karen Holmes, while enjoying refreshments and the live music of bassist Pierre Archain.
Saturday, September 7, 2:00 to 3:15 PM
The Man Behind the Brush: Landscape Artist Ray Stanford Strong
Ray Strong biographer and exhibit co-curator Mark Humpal will share the story of Ray Strong’s long life from his childhood in Oregon to his final years in Three Rivers, California. Mark will discuss Strong’s teachers, mentors, collaborators, and major accomplishments.
Saturday, October 5, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Intro To Plein-Air with Gouache
In this painting workshop led by artist Sergio Lopez, participants will work in the Museum’s Wild Gardens, learning essential techniques for painting with gouache, a vibrant medium known for its rich pigmentation and quick-drying properties. Sergio will also share solutions to common problems in plein-air painting. Advance registration and a fee of $50 per participant are required. Two scholarship spots are available.
Saturday, November 16, 2:00 to 3:15 PM
Below and Above the Earth
In this illustrated talk, Tim Buckner, Executive Director of the Historical Society of Mendocino County, will discuss geologic and other natural forces that shape the various landscapes of Northern California, so beautifully captured in Ray Strong's paintings.
Saturday, January 11, 2:00 to 4:00 PM
Film Screening: Johnny Belinda
The Mendocino Coast stands in for a remote Nova Scotia island in this fascinating 1948 drama starring Jane Wyman, who won a Best Actress Oscar for her performance. Ray Strong’s watercolor of the film’s farmhouse is featured in the exhibition.