For one day on Sunday, October 22, the Catalina Island Conservancy returns to host the 13th edition of The Wild Side Art Show and Sale at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club. Featured this year is an impressive lineup of 10 nationally recognized artists presenting 100 plein air paintings of the Catalina Island area. The popular art event will also have a hybrid component, allowing for both in-person and virtual viewing opportunities.
Keep a lookout for the distinctive landscape styles in different paint mediums by Suzie Baker, Carl Bretzke, John Cosby, Andy Evansen, Terri Ford, Jane Hunt, Kim Lordier, Michael Obermeyer, Joe Paquet and Ron Rencher.

Terri Ford, Morning Moon, pastel on archival board, 16 x 20". The 2022 award-winning piece.
“As artists set up their easels along picturesque shores and amidst rolling hills filled with endemic and native species, they immerse themselves in the island’s soul and transpose its magic onto the canvas,” say representatives with the Conservancy. “The artists…will present their unique interpretations of the Catalina landscape with nature as an inspiration in one-of-a-kind works of art,” continues Victoria Seaver Dean, former Conservancy board member and event chair. “These works feature Catalina’s beloved wildlands stewarded by Catalina Island Conservancy, as well as scenes from Avalon and Two Harbors. As we enjoy these depictions of Catalina, we are reminded of the critical role we all play in preserving the island’s beauty for future generations.”
Jen Poyer, Conservancy director, donor engagement, adds that besides witnessing incredible artworks, “visitors can expect to interact with the [show's] renowned artists.” In addition, Patron Sponsors and Priority Access Ticket Members will enjoy VIP viewing and early purchasing opportunities, plus additional time with the artists. During general admission, all guests will be welcome at the event to view and purchase the pieces in person and online.

Suzie Baker painting in plein air at a past event. Photo by Jack Baldelli.
Overall, the Conservancy hopes that attendees are moved by the confluence of artistic brilliance and conservation advocacy to help the nonprofit safeguard Catalina’s precious landscape.
“Guests will embrace the spirit of creativity inspired by nature’s masterpiece and leave with a renewed appreciation for both art and the environment,” says Poyer. “We hope that they will also understand the unique opportunity Catalina Island presents, with the Conservancy’s vital conservation work inspiring generations of artists to capture environmental advancements. The history of painting on Catalina Island represents a unique opportunity to blend conservation and recreation together in a way that not only documents the restoration work being done but provides an opportunity for recreation in nature in a deeply special way.”
Visit the event website to find artist biographies, purchase tickets for early bird access and for additional information. —
The Wild Side Art Show and Sale
October 22, 2023
Newport Harbor Yacht Club, 720 W. Bay Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92661
(562) 437-8555, www.catalinaconservancy.org
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