Ward Ranch

A recent plein air paint-out was at the E. Waldo Ward Ranch in Sierra Madre.  The property started off as an orange grove in 1891.  Mr. Ward's plan was to produce marmalade which he perfected in 1918.  In 1902 he built a large home and barn which are still in use.  Behind the home is a small canning factory which makes marmalades as well as many other preserves and jellies.

It had rained the night before the group planned to paint at the Ward Ranch and I was sure no one would be there to paint.  The morning looked rainy but then the sun came out slightly.  Maybe a few painters would be there after all!  I was going to arrive at the location so late that I decided to take my gouache (which dries faster than transparent watercolor) and paint a small 5"x7" piece.  We had a turnout of about 10 people and had a lot of fun.  It's a pretty location.  We shopped in the store, each coming out with jars of goodies.  The afternoon rain held off until we were finished with our casual discussion of the paintings.  

5 x 7" gouache