Meet Patricia Newton | President of Art Center Morro Bay

We had the good fortune of connecting with Patricia Newton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patricia, why did you pursue a creative career?
I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. I’ve resided among the tall pines and beautiful lakes of Northern California to the bustling southern parts of the state before settling on the Central Coast.

I began to work my way through college, learning secretarial skills including shorthand. Although pretty good with those skills, the world was changing and I was changing with it. I preferred the familiar smells of the local airport garage where both parents flew small private planes out of. A fond childhood memory included my father allowing me to “take the wheel” of the aircraft.  Although he had already trimmed out (a setting) so I couldn’t easily change our flight pattern, I was hooked. I eventually married, raised two successful kids and enjoyed a career with good benefits.

My first exposure to fine art was the awe I felt while studying thought provoking paintings of a favorite aunt. Her portraits were typically, very realistic, yet some were a mix of surreal and metaphysical painting styles using representational references. When the opportunity presented itself, I happily learned to paint in oil. My style is representational. The ocean is a favorite subject with its calming yet powerful movement. Like a crescendo, the sea bestows a feeling of increasing intensity with a dramatic force that feels exhilarating, captivating, yet terrifyingly beautiful.

Retirement from a professional career allowed me to follow a passion for art and give back to the community. Currently, I am the President of Morro Bay Art Association, having been in that position for five years. Prior to that, I served two years as the Marketing Director. I’ve been in a unique position to utilize management skills and share experience with artists of all artistic levels.

Art Center Morro Bay is a non-profit organization with one of the largest contemporary galleries located on the Central Coast. The center offers two galleries that feature several local and international exhibits throughout the year. The Morro Bay Art in the Park is one of California’s longest running park exhibits and there are plenty of classes and workshops offered to children and adults throughout the year.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The Central Coast offers a multitude of places and fun things to do. Since we’re centrally located, we don’t have to travel far to experience huge temperature changes from hot to cool. Although water skiing isn’t as prevalent due to extreme drought, there are lakes and resorts that provide fishing and camping. Coastal areas offer ocean fishing, surfing, kayaking and other water sports. The restaurants, scenic wineries and art community provide lots of fun and entertainment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Central Coast offers a multitude of places and fun things to do. Since we’re centrally located, we don’t have to travel far to experience huge temperature changes from hot to cool. Although water skiing isn’t as prevalent due to the extreme drought, there are still lakes and resorts that provide fishing and camping. A short drive to the coast and we have ocean fishing, surfing, kayaking and other water sports. The restaurants, scenic wineries and art community provide lots of fun and entertainment.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would first thank the loving support of my husband and family. Working and volunteering on a full time basis takes time and dedication. Although my Aunt Lois has passed away, her passion for art continues to influence me. I would like to thank art instructors, Sandi Palmer and Joy Wilson for mentoring and providing me with the foundation needed to become a successful artist.

Website: artbypatricianewton.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbypatricia/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricia-newton-02079558/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Art-by-Patricia-120336504671632

Image Credits
All oil painting artworks are copyrighted and owned by me the artist, Patricia Newton