The Loma Linda Cultural Arts Association* welcomes Southern California painter Joe A Oakes as lecturer and demonstrating artist, for our Sunday, February 9 meeting. Born and raised in a Chicago suburb, Oakes fell in love with the sunny, mountainous, colorful landscape of California when he moved into this area in 1992. Color—bright color—still fascinates him, and his artistic goal is to impart an enhanced appreciation of that to those who enjoy his paintings.
True artists are born with a need to create, within the sphere they are first drawn to as tiny children. Support from family, teachers and peers assures their continued development. The accolades and prizes that reward their creativity lend them confidence and the impetus to keep learning. Oakes experienced all of this during his early years.
In California, he found the mountains he’d imagined and painted as a child. Oakes earned a BFA from CSU Fullerton in 1997. Work and family obligations delayed realization of his goal of becoming a professional artist until 2009, when he began serious painting with pastels, oils and acrylics. 2010 brought an opportunity to teach art, which opened the way to his dream. Since then, he teaches and exhibits throughout California, and the awards and recognition follow!
LLCAA* meetings are held in the Loma Linda Senior Center, located at the southeastern corner of the Loma Linda Civic Center complex, at 25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda. As is customary, the February 9 event begins at 2 pm. Our venue allows close observation and interchange with the artist as he works. The public is cordially invited; from non-LLCAA* members, a $5.00 donation is requested. There is no cost for LLU students.