As View celebrates our 40th Adirondacks National Exhibition of American Watercolors this year, View also pays tribute to the late Don Getz, AWS. Don was deeply involved with ANEAW through his numerous poster designs and his development of the official ANEAW exhibition font. This exhibit will span Don’s career focusing on his works in the Adirondacks.
Don Getz was enthralled with the Adirondacks. When it came time for painting, there were locations Don considered necessary to see in person to get the painting information correct. The backpacks were full, wanting to make certain he had what he needed, just in case. His smaller sized watercolor journals developed in the 2010’s. Whether hiking or in a canoe Don’s eyes were scanning the surroundings and pausing to make sketches and notes that would be used later in the paintings. The rock outcroppings, so characteristic of the Adirondacks and play of light across the mountains were of special interest. The people that would often inhabit the paintings told the stories. Don would tell me that was an important and necessary element to breathe into the paintings if you wanted people to connect. His series of paintings during the four seasons that were used for the National Exhibitions posters were much sought after by collectors. Through his attention to details, printing of the show's catalogs and working relations with “Mirnie” Kashiwa Don Getz helped to establish the show as a national watercolor event. The show continues attracting notable watercolorists from across the country today.
