Using color well is a two-step process. The first step is unlocking nature's secrets. Through study, we can learn what nature's color recipe is, and how things react under different lighting conditions. The second step is to identify color patterns from our findings, and establish nature's 'cookbook'. With this knowledge in-hand, we have the power to extend it as far as we like. We can mimic natural color, go beyond it, understate it ... whatever we want! In my Lightbox talk, I will reveal critical aspects of how to effectively study nature, the secrets I've learned from it, and how I apply it in my work both broadly and subtly. This will be a semester of art school condensed into a single talk!

To kick off LightBox Expo 2023, artist and author James Gurney (Dinotopia) and friends present a live 'plein air' painting event in front of the iconic Pasadena City Hall. Equipped with their sketchbooks, 12 professional artists wearing orange caps will lead the art event, where artists will draw or paint on location while imagining a giant character visiting Pasadena. The character can come from animation, movies, video games, or comics. The interaction between the character and Pasadena can be anything from playful to apocalyptic. Any artist is welcome to join! Each participant should bring their own materials, including a toy or figurine for reference. Each participant receives an official button. The mentors include James Gurney, Marco Bucci, Gary Geraths, Angela Sung, Michelle Lin, four concept artists from Blizzard, and more! We hope to see you there!