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Congratulations to Michele Byrne, Michael Chesley Johnson and Lee MacLeod for their new Signature Member Status in the Plein Air Painters of New Mexico!!

I would like to say something personal about each of these new Signature members:

Michele: I was delighted that Michele moved to Santa Fe over two years ago as I had been following her work. Her works from all over the world and now Santa Fe are first-class. Her fabulous NYC paintings are dear to my heart since I lived there before I myself moved to SF. And Michele paints with a palette knife and water-based oils as do I. So I began to take (zoom) workshops with her as soon as they were offered. And, as a Mathematician, I loved her technique of beginning with a Dynamic Symmetry Armature. It really helps with composition. She's a fabulous instructor as well as a nationally known artist with many beautiful paintings filled with light. I love looking at her  Santa Fe and New Mexico paintings. I intend to take an in-person workshop as soon as possible, here or in Mexico or in Italy!!

Select image for  Demo

https://www.michelebyrne.com/

Michael: I first heard of Michael many years ago when I was a student of Ann Templeton. Michael and Ann were very good friends and collaborated on books together. Michael is multi-talented: a nationally known instructor, holding workshops from Maine to Sedona, Az and has been on the faculty of PACE, an artist and an author. Most important for me: Michael has been the chair of PAPNM's  very popular, always sold-out, Western NM Paint Outs. His expertise with computers is a great help. Thank you, Michael!! Have you read Michael's new book? It's a valuable resource (I have it in my library).  He's a versatile painter in several mediums including pastel and oil.

Select image to see all books.

https://www.mchesleyjohnson.com/

Lee: I first met Lee one summer many years ago when we were in a class run by Doug Higgins. We trekked out on the Monastery Road every week through that summer. Lee had just begun to switch from his very successful career as a graphics artist in California, producing commercial illustration for book covers, game boxes, and film posters after finishing at The Art Center of College of Design. I watched as his painting changed from tight realism to his paintings now that capture color so beautifully. He is a master of color. And his clouds are excellent and highly recognizable!! Lee has won many prizes in our organization. I have painted with Lee now for many years in Bill Gallen's classes and workshops. Lee is Bill's very able assistant. Lee's paintings always stand out.   I always look to see what he has done and try to determine how he managed to produce his beautiful paintings. 

http://www.leemacleodfineart.com/

Select image to see Lee's facebook posts

Select image for video game website. 

Karen Halbert, PAPNM Webmaster and News and Contest Coordinator