Artist of the Week: an ongoing series
Judy Grear and her husband Dave retired to Avalon seven years ago and have loved every minute of their time on the island, Judy said.
Despite being retired, the couple has not slowed down. Dave volunteers for the Catalina Island Conservancy and for the Avalon Lions Club. Judy volunteers for the Catalina Art Association and other groups and, during normal times, is usually found at the art gallery at US Bank every Tuesday.
Volunteering for the Art Association was a natural fit for Judy, who loves to paint and has been able to devote more time to it.
“Art has always been a passion and after 25 years of teaching high school, it was possible to spend time painting,” Judy said.
Her interest in art began at the age of 12. During the holiday season, her mother suggested she paint a Christmas scene on the front window of their house. People seemed to like it, she said, and a family tradition of her painting a new Christmas scene on the window continued for the next dozen years or so.
Judy entered San Diego State University as an art major, but soon switched to English in order to make a living, she jokes. Now she paints things that inspire her. She likes to paint animals, and her husband tells her she’s good at them.
“That’s because there are so many adorable and calm views of the creatures around us,” Judy said. “Most of the pieces I have placed in the Catalina Art Association gallery have been sold, but there are two bison paintings there that I am happy with.”
Judy said that during the COVID shutdown, she has spent more time cleaning cupboards and closets than painting, but has been working on a few small pieces. Either way, she will continue to paint and enjoy her life on the island. And there are plenty of things to keep her busy.
“Catalina is an amazing place; the Art Association is just another example of the wonderful groups people can join,” She said.
