Carson Valley is a place where the rich history and grit of the American West collides with breathtaking landscapes, roaming wildlife and rustic architecture that results in an artist’s inspirational dream. Both nationally acclaimed and emerging artists are drawn to the valley looking for their muse and, from the looks of things, sure seem to have found it! The art scene is flourishing, with several galleries accommodating the booming creativity taking place in the Carson Valley.
Take a peek at a few of the many wonderfully talented artists in the area and maybe borrow some inspiration for yourself!
“Trail’s Reward” by Charles Muench
Charles Muench is a nationally recognized Carson Valley oil painter, having studied under the instruction of renowned artists across the globe. Muench has been awarded by national events, exhibitions and magazines for his portrait, landscape, still life, heritage and American art works. Muench’s western art hangs in the permanent collection of the historic California Club and other museums. Muench’s artwork is a breathtaking representation of the Sierra Nevada seasons, landscapes, lifestyles, light and rhythms. For more about the artist, visit www.charlesmuench.com.
“Dusky Day” by Mark Tompkins ©Nevada Artists Association
Mark Tompkins’ artistic journey started in Los Angeles where he grew up in a creative household and studied at the Art Center College of Design. He worked initially as a graphic artist. After moving to Carson Valley, Tompkins was influenced by the Sierra landscape and began painting in oil, watercolor and acrylic. Tompkins teaches painting to adults and children at the Western Nevada College, Parks and Recreation and through his own workshops. Thompkins most enjoys painting wildlife, landscapes and portraits. His award-winning work emulates the beauty of Carson Valley’s natural setting and inspires many regional artists. Tompkins’ work can be seen at the East Fork Galley in Gardnerville and shows at the Nevada Artists Association.
Michael J. Corona painting ©Carson Valley Art Center
Michael Corona is an oil, acrylic and mural painter who approaches art as an emotional outlet. Corona was born in Southern California where he trained at the Los Angeles Institute of Art and worked at Warner Bros with credits in feature animations. Corona now resides in Carson Valley where he is influenced by a lifetime of experiences and travels. His paintings are beautiful, meaningful and capture what he sees in Carson Valley and beyond.
“Snowy Aspen” by Vickie Kingman ©Nevada Artists Association
Vickie Kingman is a Carson Valley watercolor and oil painting artist with a creative career that started as a vocalist. Before moving to Gardnerville, Kingman lived in South Lake Tahoe where she sang on the M.S. Dixie and at the Top of the Wheel at Harveys. Kingman has since developed her painting skills and works predominantly in watercolor. She also teaches painting and enjoys sharing the magic of painting and the abundance of Carson Valley’s beauty. Kingman’s work can be seen at the Nevada Artists Association and at Carson Valley gallery exhibits.
“Waterin Hole – Genoa Bar” by La Vonne La Tulip Vasick
La Vonna La Tulip Vasick is a versatile watercolor painter of unique impressionist landscapes, flora and wildlife. Vasick’s home studio overlooks Carson Valley where the textures, atmosphere, lifestyle and mood of both the ranching community and High Sierra influence her art. Vasick’s work captures the region’s history, wildlife and lifestyle and has been featured on the covers of national publications and regional festival programs. Vasick’s work can be seen at the Art Gallery at Prism in Minden.
Now that you have had a small taste of the arts in the valley, go deeper by visiting the Carson Valley Arts & Antiques Trail, which showcases Carson Valley’s art museums, galleries, antiques, and more.
For further information on the local arts, check out the Carson Valley Arts Council.