On a very hot day 10 artists braved the heat and set up easels in and around Middleburg, VA, a picturesque small town sitting astride Route 50, otherwise known as The John Mosby Highway (after Confederate Colonel John Mosby). The town, dating from Civil War days, features a number of Civil War references, such as Stonewall Street and Federal Street. The Red Fox Inn, originally built in 1728, served as headquarters and hospital for Confederate soldiers during the war.

Most artists chose to paint in town as almost any of the older buildings on the main street made for a good subject. Scenes were enhanced by the strong sunlight so that there were ample opportunities for interesting contrasts and highlights. Along the side streets it was possible to include glimpses of country along with the townscapes, and some artists were attracted to those places and completed pieces with both subjects included. A few field sketches were also completed outside of town where there were rolling hills and meadows in full summer bloom. By 11:00 a.m. it was becoming very difficult to work due to the extreme heat. It was particularly difficult for the watercolorists who were barely able to complete their sketches because of the rapid drying of their paints.

The group met at noontime at the home of Barbara Piegari's sister Rita, where air conditioning and pleasant surroundings were much appreciated. The usual constructive critique and discussion were held in the kitchen! Adrienne Lewis, of the Trowbridge-Lewis Gallery, joined us and seemed to enjoy our lunchtime banter...telling stories about the early days of the Society. (Work from this paintout will be stored temporarily at the Trowbridge-Lewis Gallery until August 12 when it will be exhibited at the Middleburg Second Saturday Art Walk at the Long and Foster building where display space serves as an annex to the Gallery).

Members attending the paintout were: Chamberlain, Donovan, Dellario, Justinian, Marra, Piegari, Poly, Roberts, Schmidt and Whiteley.