2026 Art Banners
Project Overview and History
Discover the charm of Eastern Madera County as you explore the welcoming towns of Coarsegold, Oakhurst, Bass Lake, and North Fork! Stroll through our historic communites and take in the vibrant local artwork along the Community Art Banner Trail.
This project began as a simple initiative to welcome visitors with a community banner, and in 2024, it evolved into an expansive art display. The banners, showcasing local art, line our town streets from Memorial Day Weekend through ARTober each year. In early November, these artworks are auctioned off to fund future beautification projects and maintain this as an annual event.
Community Art Banners
Below, you'll find the 2026 Art Banner Map, photos of the banners and artists, and information about the artists and sponsors who made the project possible.
2026 Art Banners will hang around Oakhurst, Bass Lake, Coarsegold & North Fork communities starting May 20th thru ARTober 31st.
If you are posting photos, don't forget to tag us @YosemiteMadera
Thank you to Brook Allen for Supervisor for sponsoring installation and take down of the 2026 Art Banners!!
Art for a Great Cause! Join us for an Auction Soiree for the Community Art Banners
SAVE THE DATE: Friday, November 6, 2026 at the Oakhurst Community Center from 5 pm - 7 pm
Tickets are $25 which includes a buffet, a glass of champagne or sparkling cider, and a door prize entry.
Join us for an evening filled with art, live music, and community spirit! The bar will be open for drink purchases, including beer, wine, or a cozy Oakhurst Spirits specialty drink.
Banners: 100% of proceeds benefit EMCF's community beautification projects. Original Artwork: proceeds are split 50/50 between the Artist and the EMCF.
Scroll down below the map to find the Banners, Artist Bios, and Sponsors
Loading LoadingMeet The Incredible Local Artists & Sponsors
Banner location: Coarsegold Historic Village - 35301 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Hello my name is Rivka Ann Schaffner ~ I am a Contemporary Graffiti Artist of the Post Pop, Surrealistic, Abstract Movement.
I began selling my art work at street art shows in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Santa Barbara in 1975. My art appears in private collections around the world, and has been displayed in the galleries of Los Angeles, Honolulu, Santa Fe, in the mountains of Yosemite and in Fresno.
I have has illustrated 52 children's books and worked on 8 syndicated television cartoon shows.
My paintings are inspired from nature, dreams, thoughts streaming through my mind and life experiences.
I approach each blank canvas with the concept that that all life is creative...Every action is an act of creating...every thought is a creative moment. Making artwork is the physicality of the creative moment, which is fleeting and intangible… My art is a stream of conscience decisions. Every stroke and color is deliberate.
If you want to follow my work I’m on Instagram at Rivka designs, and Facebook at Rivka designs
Banner location: Coarsegold Historic Village - 35301 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Carolie Jensen is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative journey began at age seven under the instruction of Eva Zeitz. Over the years, she has explored numerous mediums, including watercolor, oil, acrylic, charcoal, pen and ink, and native-inspired basketry.
Today, Carolie focuses primarily on acrylic paintings, often working on reclaimed barn wood to create richly textured, nostalgic pieces. She also crafts pine needle memory baskets, memory catchers, and coasters, blending traditional craftsmanship with personal storytelling.
The artist maintains a permanent space at the Yosemite Gateway Art Center in Oakhurst, where she offers live demonstrations twice monthly and teaches basketry workshops. Her work is featured at galleries across Madera, Fresno, and Northern California, and she is a regular participant in Sierra Art Trails at the Coarsegold Historic Village.
Through both painting and basketry, Carolie invites viewers to connect with heritage, memory, and the beauty of handmade traditions.
Website: jensenent.com
Banner location: Coarsegold Professional Center - 35324 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Kerby C. Smith is an artist and photographer with a career spanning photojournalism, mixed media, and fine art. A graduate of Hobart College, he worked as a photojournalist for decades, with his documentary photography published in major newspapers, magazines, and National Geographic.
Today, Kerby specializes in mixed media art, commercial product photography, and fine art reproduction. He has been active in Fresno and Madera County’s art communities since 2005 and played a key role at the Chris Sorensen Studio in Fresno, where he supervised public art projects, including his own mural "Transparency."
The artist is a member of the Madera County Arts Council’s Circle Gallery and Yosemite Sierra Artists, balancing his time between creative projects and commercial work. His pieces reflect a deep appreciation for storytelling, craftsmanship, and visual exploration.
Kerby’s body of work continues to capture the layered, nuanced beauty of the world through both lens and brush.
Website: kerbysmith.com
Instagram: @kerbybirds | @kerbyseye
Cathy Desch - "Stars, Stripes & Sunshine"
Banner location: Coarsegold Professional Center - 35324 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Cathy Desch is a passionate painter who discovered her love for art after retiring from a career in nursing. She finds painting to be a peaceful, healing practice and enjoys sharing that joy with others—especially children. Cathy often paints alongside young artists, inspiring creativity and encouraging others to explore the therapeutic power of making art.
Banner location: Coarsegold Historic Village -35300 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Brooke (Evans) Soukup grew up on an island off the California Coast surrounded by art and artists in her family; she enjoys dabbling in a variety of mediums, and is the author of the children’s books Dance by the Sea, and Cold. She now lives in the Sierra National Forest, continually inspired by the sea and nature themes.
For the last few years, Brooke has been leaning into her lifetime interest in children’s stories and artwork. Some of her artistic journal covers and books can be found in local boutique shops on the coast of California, on Amazon, in person at art booths, or by reaching out for custom pieces on www.facebook/updraft.ink, www.updraft.ink, www.amazon.com/author/brooke-evans-soukup or contact@updraft.ink.
Katie Wing - "Leap BIG! Land into Oakhurst"
Banner location: The Inelle Hotel & Hemlock Restaurant - 48800 Royal Oaks Drive, Oakhurst
Katie Wing is a multidisciplinary artist who relocated to Oakhurst, California, in 2024 after many years living in Orange County. While her professional background is rooted in medical devices, healthcare, and biology, she has cultivated a parallel passion for art and design since childhood.
Katie’s work spans many mediums, including painting, wood-burning, jewelry-making, fractal burning, ink sketching, and calligraphy. Her designs often incorporate Japanese, Chinese, and Eastern aesthetics, blending geometric abstraction with symbolism and personal storytelling.
The artist thrives on creating one-of-a-kind, sentimental pieces, preferring to design for individuals rather than the mass market. Her love for travel, hiking, and motorcycling fuels much of her creative inspiration, helping her bring new energy and depth to every project.
Through her creative studio, Wing Design Co., Katie continues to explore the intersection of craftsmanship, individuality, and emotional connection.
Website: wingdesign.co
Gina Mims - "Soaring Spirit"
Banner location: Across from Taco Bell - 40020 Highway 49, Oakhurst
Gina Mims is a California native who relocated from Orange County to Ahwahnee, near Yosemite National Park, in 2013. Drawn by her family's deep roots at Bass Lake—where they have gathered for over 80 years—Gina embraced a lifestyle centered on creativity and a strong connection to nature.
She runs Inspiro Brands, a graphic design agency, but after moving to the Sierra foothills, she has also returned to her passion for painting. Her dreamlike acrylic landscapes, which she calls “Serenity Scapes,” are created with brush and palette knife, offering peaceful, meditative spaces that invite viewers to experience a sense of escape and tranquility.
Gina exhibits her work year-round at her gallery space inside Oakhurst Spirits Distillery, where collectors seek out her calming pieces. In addition to her art, she serves as Marketing and Community Outreach Chair for Yosemite Sierra Artists, participates in Sierra Art Trails each October, and founded the Oakhurst Art & Wine Hop, a seasonal monthly event from May through October where she displays her paintings alongside other local artists.
Website: ginamimsart.com
https://oakhurstspirits.com/gallery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginalmims/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GinaMimsArt
Oakhurst Art & Wine Hop: https://oakhurstarthop.com/
Yosemite Sierra Artists: https://yosemitesierraartists.org/
Autumn Ensign - "Welcome to Oakhurst"
Banner location: South Gate Brewing Company - 40233 Enterprise Drive, Oakhurst
Autumn Ensign has been creating art for as long as she can remember. Her work is inspired by humor, whimsy, and the simple joy of making people smile. As an artist, her main objective is to laugh—to create pieces that amuse her and spark a sense of delight. Through her art, Autumn hopes to share that joy and bring a little laughter to everyone who views her work.
Banner location: Madera County Government Center - 40232 Junction Drive, Oakhurst
Erin Alstrom Cook is a fluid artist in Fresno, California. Each abstract piece is singularly unique and expressive. They "speak" to the viewer and create a connection in both the smaller details and the larger scope of the piece. Each painting is "thrown" or "poured," using acrylic paint, mixed by the artist to the desired viscosity. The artist’s surface for the paintings are gallery depth Birch wooden panels, which are both durable and light weight for easy display. Though created with intent and purpose, the pieces take on a more organic quality dictated by the fluidity of the paint. Once thoroughly dried, the paintings receive a lustrous finish of gloss varnish, or resin, for a professional and lasting piece of art. Erin is also a published fiction writer and a singer in a band. Because of these creative interests, her art pieces are both inspired by, and dedicated to, musicians and writers that she admires. She is also greatly inspired by, and drawn to, natural environments she has visited or photographed.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Alstromart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alstromart/
Andrew Regner - "Golden Hour Daffodils"
Banner location: Oakhurst Giftworks - 49027 Road 426, Oakhurst
Andrew brings a unique perspective to photography through a lifelong passion for technology, problem-solving, and the beauty found in both natural and digital worlds. With a background rooted in computers and systems thinking, Andrew approaches photography with the same curiosity and precision that has defined his career, always searching for ways to simplify complexity, uncover hidden patterns, and create meaningful experiences.
A pragmatic realist by nature, Andrew believes technology should enhance life rather than complicate it. Photography provides a balance to that mindset: an opportunity to slow down, observe, and capture moments that often go unnoticed in the fast pace of modern life. Whether exploring Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes, quiet details of nature, or the interplay of light and texture, his work reflects an appreciation for clarity, authenticity, and connection.
As the incoming President of the Yosemite Sierra Artists, Andrew is passionate about supporting artists, fostering creative community, and helping bridge the gap between technology and the arts. He believes creativity and innovation are deeply connected — and that art, like technology, has the power to improve lives, inspire curiosity, and help people see the world in new ways.
Banner location: Century 21 Ditton Realty - 40307 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Teresa J. Sharp is a California-born artist whose work reflects a lifetime of finding beauty in the everyday. Growing up in Shafter, she found inspiration in farm fields, wildflowers, and coastal sunsets, which continue to influence her vibrant paintings.
After studying drawing and oil painting at Bakersfield College and Fresno State, Teresa focused on raising a family and cultivating creativity through hospitality. Inspired later by reading The Artist’s Way, she reignited her passion for painting at the age of fifty, attending an art retreat in France and enrolling in courses at Evergreen College in San Jose.
Her time living in Yokohama, Japan, proved transformative, offering new cultural inspirations and opportunities to exhibit internationally. Upon returning to California, Teresa settled near Yosemite National Park, where she paints luminous flowers, landscapes, and scenes influenced by her travels.
An active member of Yosemite Sierra Artists and co-founder of Live Create Connect, the artist continues to exhibit through Sierra Art Trails and looks forward to expanding her reach in 2025 with Marin Open Studios and the Plein Air Convention.
Website:teresajsharpart.com
Steve Montalto - "Messenger"
Banner location: Visitor Center, 40343 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Steve Montalto is a multidisciplinary artist and the Creative Director for Visit Yosemite | Madera County. His diverse body of work spans landscape photography, portrait and event photography, sculpture, drawing, and digital art. With a profound affinity for night photography, Steve captures the serene and enigmatic beauty of nocturnal landscapes, with a particular emphasis on the moon—one of his favorite muses. His creative interpretations and various takes on our nearest celestial neighbor have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
As a former freelance photojournalist for the Sierra Star, Steve has a rich history of storytelling through his lens. His skills extend beyond photography; he has also made significant contributions as a digital content and collateral creator for a variety of businesses and clients, blending artistic vision with practical design.
In addition to his freelance work, Steve plays a pivotal role in his local community as the "in-house" image creator for the Golden Chain Theatre. His artistic contributions help bring the theatre's productions to life, adding a visual dimension that enhances the audience's experience and is key to helping audiences find and engage with the theatre.
Steve's work can be explored further on his website, www.highmountainimages.com, Follow his artistic journey and see some of his latest creation on Instagram @highmountainimages and on Facebook at svmontlato.
Banner Sponsor: Visit Yosemite | Madera County - www.yosemitethisyear.com
Melanie Lopez - "See America...Yosemite"
Banner Location: 76 Gas Station/7-11 Store - 40475 Highway 41, Oakhurst
My work primarily consists of painting, mixed media, sculpture, photography, and fiber arts. I enjoy experimenting with new mediums and incorporating natural elements into my work. I’ve been drawing since the age of six, and have always been inspired by nature. My love of art eventually led me to pursue a career as a makeup artist and I found that I loved experimenting with the different textures that this medium offered. After attending college and receiving my art degree, I put my love of art on a shelf for several years to focus on my career and family. It’s only within the past few years that I’ve begun to create and show my work again, and it has been long overdue. I continue to be inspired by nature, the divine, and the feminine. I strive to find beauty in all things, and prefer abstract, ethereal, and often dark themes, because I believe that even in the darkness, there is beauty if one looks for it.
IG@Melanie_LopezArt Facebook@Melanie_LopezArt
Jennifer Moss - "Half Dome, May"
Banner location: Hampton Inn - 40740 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Jennifer Moss is a multidisciplinary artist working in photography, digital art, mixed media, and jewelry design.
Raised in Evanston, Illinois, Jennifer graduated from Northwestern University before beginning a successful career in the technology sector. From 2000 to 2011 she pursued photography professionally, operating a studio out of Los Angeles with images published both nationally and internationally. Her critique of the portrayal of women in advertising has appeared in Ms. Magazine, BBC News, MSN, and other major outlets.
Today, Jennifer’s photography focuses on capturing intimate and powerful moments in both people and nature. She is a board member of Yosemite Sierra Artists and co-curates the annual Visions of Self exhibition, connecting female artists from around the world. Through every piece she creates, the artist seeks to reveal resilience, beauty, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Website: JenniferMoss.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mettajenn
Facebook: https://facebook.com/mettagalleryonline
Amanda Von Raeder - "Wakin' Up To Jazz"
Banner location: Fairfield Inn - 40780 Highway 41, Oakhurst
"Amanda Von Raeder’s journey as an artist begins in the shadow of Half Dome, where she was raised in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Surrounded by towering granite cliffs and waterfalls, her childhood was steeped in the magic of the Sierras. Even then, her connection to art was undeniable—she was the child who couldn’t stop drawing in her schoolbook pages or on restaurant napkins.
A watercolor class in Yosemite Valley became a turning point for her, leading her to paint not just what she saw, but what she felt—blending lived experience with imagination, memory, and wonder.
Her art banner piece, “Wakin’ Up to Jazz,” carries that spirit. Inspired by a moment on horseback near Tenaya Creek, when the sound of a lone jazz trumpet sounded through the trees, the painting captures something deeply American—the freedom to create, to wander, to listen. In the context of the nation’s 250th celebration, it stands as a tribute to individuality and the wild places that nurture it.
Amanda feels that creating the art banner has rekindled something in her, reminding her that art has always been a part of who she is.
After fifteen years as a professional Yosemite tour guide, Amanda now welcomes travelers at the Visitor Center in Oakhurst. Outside of work, she finds inspiration hiking in the backcountry, and expresses herself on stage at the Golden Chain Theatre.
For Amanda, Yosemite is more than a place—it is a lifelong companion, a source of inspiration, and the thread that ties together her art, her work, and her sense of self."
Lura Schwarz Smith - "Freedom Rises"
Banner location: Yosemite Gateway Art Center - 40982 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Lura Schwarz Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art, with an emphasis in painting and drawing, from San Francisco State University. She began creating textile art and mixed media works in 1975, exhibiting throughout California during the 70s and 80s. In the 1990s, she shifted her focus to art quilts, receiving national and international awards; one of her quilts was named among the “100 Best American Quilts of the 20th Century.”
In the past decade, Lura has returned to oil painting, drawn to the immediacy of paint on canvas. Her work explores both realistic and abstract approaches, often focusing on figurative subjects, imagination, and the inner life.
Lura's first solo painting exhibition was hosted by Fresno Vernissage, where she later also exhibited alongside her husband, Kerby Smith. Her most recent solo show was at the Art Center Gallery in Oakhurst in 2022, and the duo exhibited again at Scarab Creative Arts in Fresno in 2023. Her paintings have been featured at the Carnegie Art Center in Turlock, Sorensen Studio Gallery and Scarab Creative Arts in Fresno, Yosemite Museum Gallery in Yosemite National Park, Tree Top Gallery in Mariposa, Kings Art Center in Hanford, and MCAC Circle Gallery in Madera. She has received numerous awards, including multiple Best of Show honors.
Her work can currently be seen at the Yosemite Gateway Art Center and Yosemite Sierra Artists Gallery in Oakhurst, as well as 480 Lighthouse Gallery in Pacific Grove. She is a member of the Madera Arts Council, Mariposa Arts Council, and Yosemite Sierra Artists, where she chairs the Portrait Group and regularly participates in Plein Air outings.
Website: www.lura-art.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lura.artist/
Facebook: Lura Schwarz Smith Art, Lura Schwarz Smith
Gina Mims - "Splendor"
Banner location: Siler Creek Center - 40879 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Gina Mims is a California native who relocated from Orange County to Ahwahnee, near Yosemite National Park, in 2013. Drawn by her family's deep roots at Bass Lake—where they have gathered for over 80 years—Gina embraced a lifestyle centered on creativity and a strong connection to nature.
She runs Inspiro Brands, a graphic design agency, but after moving to the Sierra foothills, she has also returned to her passion for painting. Her dreamlike acrylic landscapes, which she calls “Serenity Scapes,” are created with brush and palette knife, offering peaceful, meditative spaces that invite viewers to experience a sense of escape and tranquility.
Gina exhibits her work year-round at her gallery space inside Oakhurst Spirits Distillery, where collectors seek out her calming pieces. In addition to her art, she serves as Marketing and Community Outreach Chair for Yosemite Sierra Artists, participates in Sierra Art Trails each October, and founded the Oakhurst Art & Wine Hop, a seasonal monthly event from May through October where she displays her paintings alongside other local artists.
Website: ginamimsart.com
https://oakhurstspirits.com/gallery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginalmims/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GinaMimsArt
Oakhurst Art & Wine Hop: https://oakhurstarthop.com/
Yosemite Sierra Artists: https://yosemitesierraartists.org/
Luke Schaftary - "Acorn Woodpecker Lookout"
Banner location: El Cid - 41939 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Luke Schaftary is a fine art photographer whose work captures the grandeur and subtlety of the natural world. Born and raised in Wisconsin, he developed a love for the outdoors through camping, fishing, skiing, and spending time in the changing seasons of the Midwest.
As a young man, Luke traveled extensively across the United States, spending time in Yellowstone, Denali, and the Grand Canyon. His experiences in America's national parks deeply influenced his appreciation for landscape photography. Inspired by John Muir’s writings and the photography of Ansel Adams, he became committed to creating images that evoke emotional reactions rather than simply documenting scenery.
The artist also developed skills in printing, graphic design, and traditional film development. His time living in Maui led to the founding of Granite Cliff Studio, where he refined his professional photography style, capturing the lush environments and cultural icons of the Hawaiian islands.
Now based in Yosemite National Park, Luke continues to create photography that blends technical skill with a deep reverence for nature’s beauty and mystery.
Website: granitecliffstudio.com
Instagram: @granitecliffstudio
Facebook: Granite Cliff Studio
Amy Morgan - "Abundance"
Banner location: Community West Bank - Von's Shopping Center - 40004 Highway 41 #101, Oakhurst
Amy Morgan is an artist and educator whose career reflects a commitment to narrative beauty, hands-on creativity, and community engagement. After earning her B.A. from Carleton College and an MFA from San Diego State University, she pursued teaching, introducing generations of students to the transformative power of art.
Amy’s experience spans teaching ceramics at Poway High School, developing college-level curriculum in Fresno, and creating the volunteer-based Art in the Classroom program to bring arts education into underserved elementary schools. Through the Fresno Arts Council’s Teaching Artist Program, she worked with special needs students, and during the pandemic, she helped mentor new teachers through the challenges of online art instruction.
In her personal studio practice, Amy creates pottery, sculpture, and silk paintings. Her work has been featured in regional exhibits, and in 2019, she received the Fresno Arts Council’s Horizon Award.
Today, Amy teaches after-school STEAM Enrichment classes through InnovED Educational Services while continuing to create and exhibit her own artwork.
https://www.facebook.com/artbyamymorgan/
https://www.instagram.com/amy.morgan.art/
Steve Montalto - "Whiskey Falls"
Banner location: Near Hot Shot Coffee Shack - 33045 Road 222, North Fork
Steve Montalto is a multidisciplinary artist and the Creative Director for Visit Yosemite | Madera County. His diverse body of work spans landscape photography, portrait and event photography, sculpture, drawing, and digital art. With a profound affinity for night photography, Steve captures the serene and enigmatic beauty of nocturnal landscapes, with a particular emphasis on the moon—one of his favorite muses. His creative interpretations and various takes on our nearest celestial neighbor have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
As a former freelance photojournalist for the Sierra Star, Steve has a rich history of storytelling through his lens. His skills extend beyond photography; he has also made significant contributions as a digital content and collateral creator for a variety of businesses and clients, blending artistic vision with practical design.
In addition to his freelance work, Steve plays a pivotal role in his local community as the "in-house" image creator for the Golden Chain Theatre. His artistic contributions help bring the theatre's productions to life, adding a visual dimension that enhances the audience's experience and is key to helping audiences find and engage with the theatre.
Steve's work can be explored further on his website, www.highmountainimages.com, Follow his artistic journey and see some of his latest creation on Instagram @highmountainimages and on Facebook at svmontlato.
Luke Schaftary - "Lumberjack Bear"
Banner location: The Pines Resort - 54432 Road 432, Bass Lake
Luke Schaftary is a fine art photographer whose work captures the grandeur and subtlety of the natural world. Born and raised in Wisconsin, he developed a love for the outdoors through camping, fishing, skiing, and spending time in the changing seasons of the Midwest.
As a young man, Luke traveled extensively across the United States, spending time in Yellowstone, Denali, and the Grand Canyon. His experiences in America's national parks deeply influenced his appreciation for landscape photography. Inspired by John Muir’s writings and the photography of Ansel Adams, he became committed to creating images that evoke emotional reactions rather than simply documenting scenery.
The artist also developed skills in printing, graphic design, and traditional film development. His time living in Maui led to the founding of Granite Cliff Studio, where he refined his professional photography style, capturing the lush environments and cultural icons of the Hawaiian islands.
Now based in Yosemite National Park, Luke continues to create photography that blends technical skill with a deep reverence for nature’s beauty and mystery.
Website: granitecliffstudio.com
Instagram: @granitecliffstudio
Facebook: Granite Cliff Studio
Barbara Liss - "Illuminated"
Banner location: Holiday Inn Express, 40820 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Barbara Liss is an artist who believes that great art should evoke an emotional response. Living near Yosemite National Park, she finds endless inspiration in the ever-changing beauty of the natural world around her.
Barbara paints a wide range of subjects—animals, landscapes, still life, and portraits—guided by a curiosity and openness to whatever captures her attention. She humorously describes herself as being like a dog spying a squirrel, always ready to shift her focus and embrace new ideas.
A former president and current gallery coordinator for Yosemite Sierra Artists, Barbara is an active participant in plein air groups, portrait sessions, and local exhibitions. Painting, she says, is essential to maintaining her creative spirit and inner balance.
Today, the artist shares her work through the YSA gallery in Oakhurst, exhibitions and online platforms, offering viewers a colorful and heartfelt interpretation of the natural and human worlds.
Website: https://yosemitesierraartists.org/member-profile/bliss/
Instagram: @blissfulartbarbara
Facebook: BLissfulArtBarbara
Erin Cook "Copper and Strontium"
Banner location: Stars & Stripes Realty - 54250 North Shore Road 432 #3, Bass Lake
Erin Alstrom Cook is a fluid artist in Fresno, California. Each abstract piece is singularly unique and expressive. They "speak" to the viewer and create a connection in both the smaller details and the larger scope of the piece. Each painting is "thrown" or "poured," using acrylic paint, mixed by the artist to the desired viscosity. The artist’s surface for the paintings are gallery depth Birch wooden panels, which are both durable and light weight for easy display. Though created with intent and purpose, the pieces take on a more organic quality dictated by the fluidity of the paint. Once thoroughly dried, the paintings receive a lustrous finish of gloss varnish, or resin, for a professional and lasting piece of art. Erin is also a published fiction writer and a singer in a band. Because of these creative interests, her art pieces are both inspired by, and dedicated to, musicians and writers that she admires. She is also greatly inspired by, and drawn to, natural environments she has visited or photographed.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Alstromart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alstromart/
Joy Crotty - "California Quail and Fiddleneck Flowers"
Banner location: South Fork Mills Coffee - 33173 Road 222, North Fork
Joy Crotty is a visual artist and educator based in Coarsegold, California, where she lives with her four children. She teaches at Minarets High School, one of the area's local high schools, and brings her passion for creativity into both her classroom and her personal art practice.
Joy’s work often features bold contrasts and natural motifs, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and wildlife that surround her. Her current piece is created using latex house paint on unstretched raw canvas, highlighting the striking interplay between the deep blues of the water and sky and the crisp, bright figure of a bird and its reflection.
Birds—particularly egrets and herons—frequently appear in Joy’s work. She is captivated by their elegant forms and the way they refuse to blend into their environments, standing out with strength and grace against their backdrop. To her, this visual truth also serves as a deeper metaphor for individuality, resilience, and presence.
Through her art, Joy Crotty invites viewers to see beauty in contrast and to find meaning in the bold outlines that separate and define. Her work captures not only the natural world but also the subtle emotional undercurrents that run through it.
Instagram: @joyjoyjustjoy
Joy Crotty - "Sunset Buck"
Banner location: Across from Hot Shot Coffee Shack - 32975 Road 222, North Fork
Joy Crotty is a visual artist and educator based in Coarsegold, California, where she lives with her four children. She teaches at Minarets High School, one of the area's local high schools, and brings her passion for creativity into both her classroom and her personal art practice.
Joy’s work often features bold contrasts and natural motifs, drawing inspiration from the landscapes and wildlife that surround her. Her current piece is created using latex house paint on unstretched raw canvas, highlighting the striking interplay between the deep blues of the water and sky and the crisp, bright figure of a bird and its reflection.
Birds—particularly egrets and herons—frequently appear in Joy’s work. She is captivated by their elegant forms and the way they refuse to blend into their environments, standing out with strength and grace against their backdrop. To her, this visual truth also serves as a deeper metaphor for individuality, resilience, and presence.
Through her art, Joy Crotty invites viewers to see beauty in contrast and to find meaning in the bold outlines that separate and define. Her work captures not only the natural world but also the subtle emotional undercurrents that run through it.
Instagram: @joyjoyjustjoy
Bill Klemens "Bass Lake Fireworks"
Banner location: The Forks Resort - 39150 Road 222, Bass Lake
Bill Klemens grew up on the East Coast and, after a brief time at Purdue University, began working as a computer programmer in New York City in the 1970s. When he later moved to San Francisco for a new job, he fell in love with California and knew he would never return East.
Bill spent his career in San Francisco as a computer programmer, first in the financial industry and later for more than 30 years as a consultant with the Golden Gate Bridge District and AC Transit, maintaining payroll systems. Along the way, he made time to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast and mountains, especially on school outings with his young daughter. When she was in high school, he bought her a 35mm SLR camera, and when her interest faded, he happily “inherited” it.
Although Bill had always enjoyed photography—and even converted his kitchen pantry into a darkroom for a time—he began pursuing it more seriously after his daughter left for college. He continued upgrading his equipment, and after shooting 56 rolls of film at the summer Olympics in Sydney in 2000, he made the switch to a digital SLR.
Digital photography accelerated Bill’s growth as an artist, allowing him to capture and review images instantly. He began attending Photoshop World annually, enrolled in online educational programs, and took classes at the Santa Fe Photographic Workshops, including one with Jay Maisel.
Bill’s work has been featured in the California Coastal Commission Handbook and recognized in its annual contests. Since 2008, he has been a member of the Burning Man Doc Team, documenting the event and contributing images for the calendar, social media, and other publications. He is also a member of Yosemite Sierra Artists and participates in the YSA Photo Group. Bill now lives in Oakhurst with his partner and wife, Susan Becker.
Darvin Atkeson/Yosemite Landscapes "Sweet Dreams Miller's"
Banner location: Miller's Landing Resort - 37976 Road 222, Bass Lake
“My name is Darvin Atkeson, but my friends call me “Darv”. My wife Lynneal “Lynn”, make our home in Oakhurst with our American Cocker Spaniel named Blue. I was born and raised in California but trips to Yosemite National Park where my favorite times as a child and I think I knew even back then Yosemite was where I wanted to be.
Then I joined the US Army and was stationed at Fort Ord with the Buffalo Soldiers. It seemed like fate as it was the Buffalo Soldiers who cared for Yosemite NP in the early days of the park. Once I received my Bachelor’s Degree, I saw an ad for a job with Sierra On Line and knew I wanted the job. I started in Tech Support but eventually moved into the Art Department doing 3D graphics. During my free time I rendered some images for a 1970s rock band by the name Boston and was eventually featured on the cover of their last album.
I had taken photography in high school when the art class was full. Turned out I was the only student in the photography class and I learned a great deal. But it wasn’t until digital cameras became available that photography really hooked me. It was pictures of the Courtney Fire that burned near Bass Lake got me noticed by the community.
The area around Oakhurst and Yosemite have become our longtime home and Lynn and I love the area and the people. We are surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery and I have had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented people here. It is great to get to live here and be involved with the community.”
Website: https://yosemitelandscapes.com/
Susan Becker "Fireworks over Bass Lake"
Banner location: Pines Village - Dwight Samuel Park, Bass Lake
I am a writer and an opportunistic photographer, focusing on landscape, event, and street photography—or whatever catches my eye.
I first began taking photos in college, when I could borrow the English department’s 35mm SLR camera. I even took it to West Virginia for a week to document a subsistence farm tucked deep in a hollow, far from anywhere. While I couldn’t get the resulting article published, I did receive an offer to become a stringer for the magazine I submitted it to.
I didn’t return to photography until years later, when I grew tired of standing around during beach walks and mountain hikes while my partner, Bill Klemens, took photos—or more often, spent what felt like hours discussing photography with passersby. (Big cameras are worse than puppies!) I bought my first digital SLR in 2006, which means by now I should be an expert. I’m not—but I do believe I improve every time I pick up my camera.
Since moving from San Francisco to Oakhurst in 2016, I’ve enjoyed taking pictures while walking in the foothills, in Yosemite Valley and the high country, or back at the beach in Point Lobos and Point Reyes. I also continue to enjoy the wild adventure of taking pictures for the Burning Man Doc Team at Black Rock City.
I carry my camera because it helps me focus on what surrounds me and see the richness of the world more clearly.
Bill Klemens "Nelder Grove Giant"
Banner location: Buckhorn Saloon - 32992 Road 222, North Fork
Bill Klemens grew up on the East Coast and, after a brief time at Purdue University, began working as a computer programmer in New York City in the 1970s. When he later moved to San Francisco for a new job, he fell in love with California and knew he would never return East.
Bill spent his career in San Francisco as a computer programmer, first in the financial industry and later for more than 30 years as a consultant with the Golden Gate Bridge District and AC Transit, maintaining payroll systems. Along the way, he made time to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast and mountains, especially on school outings with his young daughter. When she was in high school, he bought her a 35mm SLR camera, and when her interest faded, he happily “inherited” it.
Although Bill had always enjoyed photography—and even converted his kitchen pantry into a darkroom for a time—he began pursuing it more seriously after his daughter left for college. He continued upgrading his equipment, and after shooting 56 rolls of film at the summer Olympics in Sydney in 2000, he made the switch to a digital SLR.
Digital photography accelerated Bill’s growth as an artist, allowing him to capture and review images instantly. He began attending Photoshop World annually, enrolled in online educational programs, and took classes at the Santa Fe Photographic Workshops, including one with Jay Maisel.
Bill’s work has been featured in the California Coastal Commission Handbook and recognized in its annual contests. Since 2008, he has been a member of the Burning Man Doc Team, documenting the event and contributing images for the calendar, social media, and other publications. He is also a member of Yosemite Sierra Artists and participates in the YSA Photo Group. Bill now lives in Oakhurst with his partner and wife, Susan Becker.
Jim Morris "Sod Buster"
Banner location: North Fork Market - 57027 Road 225, North Fork
My paintings are distinguished by their brilliant colors and dynamic, expressive brushwork. Working exclusively in oils on wood panels, I am drawn to the richness and texture this combination provides.
When I’m in my studio, time becomes a vague suggestion. Hours disappear. Coffee gets cold. The world outside can do whatever it wants — I’m busy. Painting is my meditation, my relaxation, and occasionally my therapy. Once a piece is finished, I don’t cling to it. I’ve already moved on to the next idea, the next experiment, the next “let’s see what happens if I try this.” I become attached to very few completed works.
As a painter, I embrace experimentation, constantly exploring new styles, techniques, and approaches to bring fresh energy to my work. Whether refining a familiar process or venturing into uncharted artistic territory, I thrive in the freedom that painting affords me.
I embrace experimentation, constantly exploring new styles, techniques, and approaches. I consider myself a "Sunday Painter", a term that reflects my approach to art as an act of pure enjoyment and self-expression. I paint for the love of it, following my intuition rather than external expectations. I paint what I want, when I want, and how I want—each piece a reflection of my evolving curiosity and creative spirit.
My goal is to make paintings that tell stories, paintings that the viewer can relate to. Not just make a parity picture or recreate the real world.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MorrisJaSp/
Website: califmorris@gmail.com
Lubov Pavluk - "Precise Landing"
Banner location: Pines Village Vacation Rentals - 54310 Road 432, Bass Lake
Lubov Pavluk is a painter whose work celebrates the wonder and serenity of the natural world. Born and raised in Ukraine, she developed a love for art and beauty early in life, studying under a renowned artist from Saint Petersburg.
Through landscapes, seascapes, and dreamlike scenes, Lubov uses her imagination and emotional sensitivity to capture fleeting moments—whether a whisper of the wind, a glimmer on the waves, or the wildness of clouds. For her, art is both an expression of the soul and a way to preserve the fragile beauty surrounding us.
The artist’s compositions come from a place of deep memory and heartfelt creativity, inviting viewers to experience the tranquility and richness of nature through her eyes.
Today, Lubov continues to exhibit and share her art, connecting audiences with the emotional power of the natural world.
Website: artbythesoul.com
Mary Beth Harrison - "A Walk Among the Elders"
Banner location: Near the North Fork Market - Road 222 and 225, North Fork
Mary Beth Harrison is an impressionistic oil painter based in North Fork, California. Known for combining plein air painting, photography, and studio refinement, she captures the striking beauty of California’s landscapes with vibrancy and authenticity.
Mary Beth’s deep connection to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada began early and continues to shape her art today. Painting outdoors allows her to witness the fleeting changes in light and atmosphere, which she then brings back to the studio for further development.
An active and award-winning member of Yosemite Sierra Artists, the painter exhibits regularly at venues such as the Yosemite Gateway Art Center in Oakhurst and Jennie’s Garden in North Fork. Her work is celebrated for its textured brushwork, emotional resonance, and vivid interpretation of nature’s beauty.
Beyond her painting, Mary Beth is dedicated to supporting the local art community, encouraging creativity and connection through her exhibitions and collaborations.
Website: marybethharrisonart.com
Sandra Lee Scott "Celebrate!"
Banner location: Near Box Feed Store - 32941 Road 222, North Fork
Sandra Lee Scott has been deeply interested in the arts since the age of sixteen and has completed the equivalent of a college minor in art. While building a career in the mental health field, she continued to pursue painting and mixed media on a limited basis and was also a serious amateur photographer for several decades. For the past fourteen years, Sandra has embraced her creativity full-time.
A long-time member of Yosemite Sierra Artists, Sandra actively participates in its Plein Air and Photography groups. Her photography and artwork have received recognition and won awards in local exhibits, and she has been a participating artist in Sierra Art Trails since 2014. Several of her pieces have also been accepted into the renowned Yosemite Renaissance exhibit.
Sandra is passionate about pastel, enjoys mixed media projects, and loves experimenting with acrylics, alcohol inks, and photography. Her latest passion is painting with cold wax and oil, using squeegees, brayers, and palette knives to create texture-rich, expressive works.
Adventurous. Eclectic. Innovative.
These three words describe Sandra’s approach to art—and to life. Her philosophy is simple: Why limit oneself?
Sandra is a participating member of the Yosemite Sierra Artists Gallery in Oakhurst. Additional works of hers can be seen at United Security Bank, and intermittently at the Oakhurst Visitor Center and the Circle Gallery.
Website: http://sandralee-scott.pixels.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandralee.scott.9
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandeescott/
Preferred Media: mixed media, painting, pastel, photography, other
