Join us for a sunrise morning hike on Serpents Trail and plein air painting session with our Community Artist in the Park, Monica Esposito. We’ll hike a very steep scenic trail as the sun rises over the valley onto the stunning canyon landscape, then we’ll create our own artwork inspired by nature. 

Monica will demo how to get started on an outdoor painting, give tips and techniques for speedy work and some suggestions for quick studies while using watercolor or gouache. All skill levels are welcome!

Monica Esposito is a fine art artist and registered nurse located in Grand Junction, Colorado. Receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in painting from the University of Texas in 2001. She has spent her life exploring the western landscape for her inspiration and credits the art and life of Georgia O’Keeffe as one of her strongest influences.  

Details:  

• Date: Tuesday, September 9th
• Time: 6:30 AM- 9:30 AM

• Location: Serpents Trail – Meet at the trailhead.

• Registration: Risk forms must be signed prior to beginning the hike.  

• Distance: 2 mile steep and strenuous roundtrip hike- We will start from the bottom and stop half way to paint and then hike back down. Plan for a total of 3 hours of hiking and painting time.  

• Bring: Plein air set up-Travel watercolor or gouache set, paper, brushes with an easel is recommended. Lots of water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

• Note: Hike may be cancelled or postponed due to weather conditions. Park passes are required. Carpooling is encouraged.