On view now….Upper West celebrates the art of Bobbie Rich with a solo exhibit titled “A Parade of Ladies.” It was a successful opening on Sunday, February 8 at Upper West. Over twenty of the artist’s paintings will be on display. Art lovers came out to support the local artist.

Photo of Bobbie Rich by Beth Adams

Like the rest of us, Rich is a fan of Upper West. “I was originally introduced to Upper West through other Santa Monica locals,” said Rich. “That is how you truly know a restaurant is superb. I enjoy attending their art events, meeting up with friends at the bar, or settling in for a more intimate dinner.” Rich went on to say how excited she was to take her turn and exhibit her work at Upper West.

Rich said her art was influenced by the work of other artists. “I enjoy the whimsical quality of Don Bachardy’s portraits. I was able to sit for him several times, and it is pretty magical to be in his presence,” said Rich.

The art of Andrea Raft has also had an impact on Rich’s work. She first met Raft through Women Painters West. “Andrea is my friend. I love her work. She is a muse and teacher of mixed media.” A professional artist living in Indio, Raft and her husband Martin Raft often invites Rich for the weekend. “When I am staying with her in the desert, I drop everything else and focus entirely on my art.”

The artist keeps herself busy daily by teaching classes for both adults and children. Rich hosts wine and painting events. She added that her instruction offers her adult students a mini vacation from their work and family lives. She teaches private lessons, group classes all over Los Angeles.

Rich cited that art is important to both adults and kids, explaining that children are able to use a different part of their brain to create, explore and express themselves. “Extra curricular art for kids is particularly important now that so many schools do not have funding for regularly scheduled art classes,” said Rich. Her “kids” (as she calls them) take a tremendous amount of pride in their art. Their work can be seen in a window display at 625 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica.

Stop by Upper West to see the art of Bobbie Rich and enjoy the paintings of this talented artist! The art will be up through the end of April.

Where: Upper West Restaurant, 3321 W. Pico Blvd. (33rd Street), Santa Monica,
Phone: (310) 586-1111
Website: http://www.theupperwest.com   http://www.BobbieRich.com