Painting California’s
Wild Places
Supporting UC Nature Reserves — for advocacy, education, research and conservation
Inspired by California’s natural reserves.
California Nature Reserve Artists is a collective of artists who gather to paint, observe, and respond to the remarkable landscapes protected by the University of California Nature Reserve System.
Our story began on Santa Cruz Island, where we gather twice each year at the UC Santa Barbara Santa Cruz Island Reserve to paint together, learn from one another, and create work inspired by our experiences in the field.
Our MissionArt for the Reserves
California Nature Reserve Artists celebrate the beauty and diversity of the University of California Nature Reserve system, while helping support conservation, education and scientific research.
The UC Nature Reserve System protects extraordinary places throughout California.
Through exhibitions and the sale of original artwork, prints, cards, and other artist-made goods, we hope to raise awareness and funds for the field stations that make this work possible.
Santa Cruz Island remains the heart of our group, while future gatherings will bring our artists to other UC reserves throughout California.
In the Footsteps of Diebenkorn.
Our Santa Cruz Island gatherings are known as “In the Footsteps of Diebenkorn,” inspired by California artist Richard Diebenkorn and his connection to the island.
Diebenkorn visited Santa Cruz Island as a friend of Carey Stanton, spending time with friends and painting the island landscape. Our group gathers in a similar spirit — sharing time together, painting outdoors, and learning from the landscape and one another.
We also explore Diebenkorn’s approach through occasional painting exercises, discussions, and films about his work.
Still life in the style of Diebenkorn by Mike Altman, 2026
Connect With Us
Interested in our artists, upcoming exhibitions, partnerships, or supporting California’s natural reserves through art?
We’d love to hear from you.