I often exclaim to people from other parts of the country what a treat it is to live in the Sun Valley area. The people, the natural beauty, the outdoor opportunities all make this a truly special place, I tell them. But one of the first things I mention about why I love Sun Valley is the incredible selection of cultural events available to us throughout the year, for which the Sun Valley Center for the Arts is largely responsible.
I had been a fan of the Center for a long time, but a few years ago when I attended a concert given by Jake Shimabukuro, an amazing ukulele player from Hawaii, I noticed the enthusiastic reaction of several middle school and high school students sitting near me. Wanting to see more students enjoying the artists who come to our community, I met with Kristine Bretall to discuss my commitment to help sponsor their educational outreach program. She and her staff leapt at the opportunity. I am proud to continue to be a part of an organization that allows students to experience up-close and personal interactions with professional musicians, and to even perform with them on-stage!
I have faced some health challenges and attended last years workshop with David Dunlop, and was so impressed that I returned this year. If I could choose how to best enjoy the last weeks of my life, in addition to being with my wife, I would attend David's workshop again. He is never short on sharing kind and supporting words, he is the ultimate teacher, touching your heart and always quick to put a smile on your face and yes, along the way you become a landscape painter.
Review from Guidestar
David Dunlop is by far the best instructor I have ever had. He truly enjoys teaching and he made me feel like he had all the time I needed one on one with him. He sparked my creativity and taught me how to add symbolism to my work. I loved the plain air sessions and I wonder if we could go into the Sawtooths on horseback for a day to see how he approaches our beautiful mountains and lakes. Redfish corrals could take us in as individuals and the liability issue would be taken care of. This would be an attraction for the plain air painters of Idaho and others who would be interested in that
Review from Guidestar