Museum Educator Meg Phelps

SANTA PAULA, CA – From ancient figurines, to medieval manuscripts, to avant-garde modernism, artists have been abstracting their imagery in the pursuit of focusing their ideas. On Thursday, June 13 at 3:00 p.m., art historian and Santa Paula Art Museum Educator Meg Phelps will explore the visual strategy of abstraction, its application through art history, and the ideas behind the artistic impulse. The in-gallery discussion will also consider the abstract styles of artists Susan Petty and Michele Chapin, whose works are currently on exhibit. Admission to the gallery talk is $4.00 for adults, $3.00 for seniors, and free for Santa Paula Art Museum members and students.

Meg Phelps is an experienced lecturer in art history and art appreciation. She received her M.A. in Art History from UCSB and has taught at Ventura and Moorpark Colleges for 17 years. Phelps has served as the Santa Paula Art Museum’s Museum Educator for the past three years, designing educational programming and providing outreach services to local schools. With her refreshing approaches toward art and art education, Phelps’ presentation promises to be smart and entertaining.

The discussion is part of the Second Thursday Gallery Talk series shared by the Art Museum and the Museum of Ventura County Agriculture Museum. The Ag Museum will be hosting their own talk at 2:00 p.m. about the history of the Oxnard Beet Sugar Factory, led by curator Anne Graumlich. Admission is charged separately at each museum. No reservations are necessary, and light refreshments will be served.

The Santa Paula Art Museum is located at 117 North 10th Street in downtown Santa Paula. Contact us by calling (805) 525-5554. The Art Museum’s regular hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m. The two museums are within walking distance of each other and parking is free at both locations. The Museum of Ventura County Agriculture Museum is located at 926 Railroad Avenue in Santa Paula. The Ag Museum may be contacted at (805) 525-3100.