Reception April 12

CALIFORNIA DREAMING:
HENRY DILTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Visual historian and renowned music photographer Henry Diltz returns for an encore exhibition in the museum gallery from April 12 through June 22. With more than 40 photographs by Diltz, “California Dreaming” presents a visual account

A reception for Diltz will be held on Saturday April 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be live music and refreshments. You are invited to meet and celebrate with Diltz.

A founding member of The Modern Folk Quartet, Diltz is as much at home as a musician on tour as a photographer capturing images of popular musicians.  The pictures began with a $20 second-hand Japanese camera purchased on tour with the MFQ. Despite his lack of formal training, Diltz submerged himself in the world of music: the road, the gigs, the humor, the social consciousness, the psychedelia, the up and down times.

Capturing nearly one million images over a span of 40+ years, Diltz’s work has graced hundreds of album covers and has been featured in books, magazines and newspapers. The close rapport he developed with his musician friends has enabled him to capture candid shots that convey a rare feeling of intimacy with his subjects. His unique artistic style has produced powerful photographic essays of Woodstock, The Monterey Pop Festival, The Doors, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix, and scores of other legendary artists.

Diltz returns for a Narrated Slide Presentation on Friday evening May 16. “I’ve always been very interested in people,” Diltz says. “Photography is a passport into people’s lives. It allows you to hang out and observe them.” Tickets to the Slide Presentation ($10 for member, $13 for non-member) may be reserved by phoning (805) 686-1211.

Diltz continues his distinguished career, generating new and vibrant photographs. He recently celebrated the release of his new book, “California Dreaming.” With more than 500 images—many iconic, many more previously unseen—this is an ultra-luxe, 344-page large-format limited edition book which includes commentary from a host of well-known musician friends. The book and photographic images, each signed by the artist, will be available for purchase.

The exhibit will remain on display through June 22.

Download the California Dreaming Postcard

June 27 opening
MERV CORNING
RETROSPECTIVE

Merv Corning’s final major work, pictured, was a watercolor titled “San Marcos Range”

Debuting June 27 in the museum gallery is “Merv Corning Retrospective,” the summer exhibition showcasing the illustrious career of this renowned painter, watercolorist and illustrator.

Merv Corning (1926-2006) lived and worked in Solvang for many years, creating a varied and prolific body of work which brought him nationwide acclaim. He is known for his finely detailed work, carefully nurtured during his many years as a successful award-winning illustrator. He subtly recorded each scene with impeccable realism and sensitivity. His imagery artfully captured the ambience of his subjects. Whether the focus is an ancient airplane with its heroic pilot, architecture of a by-gone era, or America’s athletes in action and portraits, his images have captured the admiration of audiences worldwide.

This exhibition features work from throughout his career and includes paintings on loan from private collectors, mementos and memorabilia from his long and successful career.

An opening reception will be held on Friday evening June 27 from 5 to 8 p.m. The exhibition will remain on display through September 21.