Spectators viewing the work of Charles Muench during a previous art show at his Gardnerville studio.
Photo special to The R-C
Often times, when viewers gaze into the works of Charles Muench they’re not just looking at a painting, they’re peering into personal memories and experiences. That is the magic hand-crafted by the renowned artist and displayed during his 10th anniversary holiday art show 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 and Dec. 8.
Muench said “paintings are a conversation starter,” and has heard many stories over the years from people who admire his work.
“When they see my art, they can relate to it and see themselves there in a way, like they are taken back to an experience,” he said.
Muench shared about a man who saw one of his works and told stories of when he was a scout leader and led groups on Sierra expeditions.
“All of it will be in the show, whether it’s my own experience I share, or someone else who sees their own story in the painting,” he said.
Muench began painting at the age of 15. At least, that’s when he decided he wanted to be an artist and went on to receive a Bachelor of Fine Arts- with great distinction degree from San Jose State University and studied under Maynard D. Stewart.
He traveled painting the city and country side of Spain, where he studied Velasquez, copied works in the Prado, and attended classes at the Circulo Bellas Artes.
He has been featured in Tahoe Quarterly Mountain Home in 2017 and the issue of Art of the West- Celebrating Our National Parks. He was the featured cover artist on the April 2013 issue of Southwest Art Magazine and has been included in the Art of the West magazine, American Art Collector, Southwest Art, and Plein Air magazine.
Some of his work is displayed in museums including, “Crystal Cove Patterns” at the Irvine Museum’s permanent collection, and Muench’s “Small Works-Great Wonders” exhibit was featured at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in 2017.
Muench also received many awards and recognition including, the Patron’s Choice Award in 2013, 2008, and 2005 at the Maynard Dixon Country Invitational, and the Irvine Museum Gold Medal Award at the California Club in Los Angeles, Calif, and more.
Muench is widely known for his landscape paintings.
Muench said people come to his show to not only view the art, but to become a part of and share the experiences on the canvas.
“Every year is a different show,” he said. “It’s always an awarding event. It’s fun to meet people, meet other artists and collectors, and to hear the stories.”
Muench said his traditional apple cider will be served and Big Little Paintings will be for sale.
“They’re 6x8 paintings with big concepts,” he said.
Due to their popularity in the past, this year he has 12 Big Little Paintings for sale during the art show. They can also be purchased on his website. Visit https://www.charlesmuench.com/ for more information.
