By Brandon HENSLEY

Landscape painters have a chance this month to show off their talents as The Crescenta Valley Arts Council is in the midst of holding its second annual “Paint Out” event.

Registration began on Friday and continues through Nov. 4 at White’s Fine Art at 2414 Honolulu Ave. Artists can register up to three paintings.

The subject matter, according to the council’s website is “flora, fauna, architecture and settings of the Crescenta Valley.” Adult participants pay $40, but the council is allowing seventh grade to 12th graders to join as well for a discounted fee of  $20.

“I think the Crescenta Valley Arts Council is committed to promoting the arts … to cover all the arts,” said Trish Kertes, a La Cañada resident and participant last year.

Kertes has been painting since the mid-1990s and regularly holds galleries at places like Descanso Gardens. She enjoys doing landscapes, seascapes and finger painting, although the latter is “more for my own practice than for showing.”

Paint Out participants can use all kinds of techniques like pastel, oil and acrylic, as long as it is an original creation. An awards presentation will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 at St. Luke’s of the Mountains. Categories include adult, youth, best in show and favorite community event. There will also be an exhibit and sale at the church that weekend.

Kertes said there were about 30 participants last year, and that was a good way to meet new people.

“I made new friends. I got to know a number of the people who were in charge,” she said. “It was nice to sit and chat.”

Kertes has been out on the town, checking out new places to paint.

“I’m seeking out new territory, trying not to repeat myself from last year,” she said.

One catch to the event? There is a boundary map outlining what parts of Crescenta Valley cannot be painted. Kertes said one of her favorite spots is Deukmejian Wilderness Park, which is within the boundary lines.

With places like that, it might not be too hard to get inspired.

For more information, go to www.crescentavalleyartscouncil.org.

  Brandon Hensley