The Chestnut Group

"Sunshine & Shadows" Art Show
2024-06-06 18:00 - 2024-07-31 17:00 (America/Chicago)
“Sunshine & Shadows”
Galerie Tangerine
(A Branch of Daigh Rick Landscape Architects)
900 South Street #104
Nashville, TN 37203
Directions: Click here
Show hours: 9:00AM – 5:00PM , Monday – Friday
Featuring Tennessee landscapes by The Chestnut Group artists.

Fall PYHO Workshops
2024-08-01 08:00 - 2024-10-06 17:00
The Fall PYHO workshops are open to MEMBERS* for registration!
From demos to working with shapes and light, there is something for everyone.
Thank you in advance for the generosity of our talented teachers this fall, Anne Blair Brown, Trey Finney, Brenda Coldwell, Pam Padgett, Todd Saal and Dawn Whitelaw.
To browse and register for the workshops, click HERE!
*The Chestnut Group members have priority to register for workshops, registration for non-members may open 3 weeks prior to the class unless it is sold out. PLEASE, ONLY MEMBERS WHO HAVE PAID 2024 DUES MAY PURCHASE AT THE MEMBER RATE.
To renew or join, click HERE.
Questions? Lolly Brown, marketing@chestnutgroup.org

"Tennessee Landscapes" Art Show at AshBlue
2024-09-01 10:00 - 2024-09-30 18:00
Visit the Tennessee Landscapes Art Show at AshBlue
September 1 – 30, 2024
The Chestnut Group members will be the featured artists at AshBlue during the month of September.
The paintings will be Tennessee landscapes and wildlife celebrating The Chestnut Group’s unique mission to preserve fragile local environments, threatened habitats and protected natural areas.
Gallery Preview, click HERE!
20% of the proceeds will be donated to The Land Trust for Tennessee to continue protecting the unique character of Tennessee’s natural and historic landscapes and sites for future generations.
Store hours: Monday – Saturday, 10:00AM – 6:00pm
Closed Sunday
AshBlue
2170 Bandywood Drive
Nashville, TN 37215
About AshBlue
In 2003, Susannah and Zulu Scott-Barnes opened AshBlue to share their unique curation of home goods and gifts. 20 years later, AshBlue has become a local favorite and continues to charm new and returning customers. The locally owned business curates a unique selection of jewelry, furniture, gifts and much more. AshBlue’s team prioritizes the customer experience and is focused on giving excellent service. AshBlue also offers wedding registry, workshops and events, garden services, monthly artist pop-ups.

Workshop with Brenda Coldwell
2024-09-21 09:00 - 15:00
LESS IS MORE: FINDING FEWER SHAPES IN THE LANDSCAPE
In this class with Brenda Coldwell, we will paint small studies with three to seven shapes.
This is an exercise in simplifying the number of shapes within your painting to make it a more impactful piece.
I’ve been experimenting with limiting the number of shapes, looking out my studio window.
In the afternoon, we will take one of your earlier studies and play with changing some of those shape values.
We will paint outside at On Track Studios.
Please bring your lunch. I’ll have tea, water, coffee.
8 spots available.
REGISTER HERE!
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike, Franklin, TN 37067
Directions: Click here
Member Price: $75
Non-Member Price: $95
Supplies needed:
Plein air gear
Your own palette of paint-whatever you are comfortable using. I use a primary palette with a few “add ons”.
Small and medium palette knife; we will use these mostly!
Small brushes: size 3-4
Pencil
9 x 12 panel to be taped off when you come to workshop, (I have the tape)
Odorless mineral spirits
Paper towels.
Bring your lunch.
Bring a playful attitude!
There is no pressure to “create a painting”.
This is an opportunity to learn to see fewer shapes and hopefully it will translate into your plein air and studio work.

Workshop with Pam Padgett
2024-10-04 09:00 - 14:00
Deconstruct and Re-Design
Pam Padgett will demonstrate reworking an older painting. Asking and analyzing possible ways to greatly improve a painting that just isn’t working.
Learn valuable lessons and new techniques as you apply constructive criticism with Pam Padgett’s approach to refreshing an existing painting.

8 spots available.
REGISTER HERE!
Date: Friday, October 4th
Time: 9:00am – 2:00pm
Location: On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike
Franklin, TN 37067
Directions: click here.
Member Price: $75
Non-Member Price: $95
At this time, please only register if you are a current Chestnut Group member.
(Registration opens to Non-members September 13, 2024)
Supplies needed:
3-4 existing paintings that need improvement.
1-2 11×14 panels
Painting gear
Paper towels
Trash bags
Bring your lunch

Workshop with Todd Saal
2024-10-05 09:00 - 15:00
Applying Plein Air Lessons in the Studio with Watercolor
Learn how Todd Saal approaches subjects while painting in the studio from photos and sketches. This workshop will focus on how he uses reference material as a foundation to capture the moments he experiences during his travels. He will discuss and demonstrate his overall process of creating studio work utilizing his experiences while painting outdoors.
Todd will have some references, but students are encouraged to bring reference photos and/or sketches of their own of subjects that they would like to paint.
10 spots available
REGISTER HERE!
Date: Sat, October 5th
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Location: On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike, Franklin, TN 37067
Directions: Click here
Member Price: $75
Non-Member Price: $95
(Registration opens to non-members September 14, 2024)
Supplies:
You are encouraged to use the materials that you are used
to working with. If you are new to watercolor here is Todd’s
full list of materials that he uses.
http://toddsaal/materials-list
Feel free to reach out prior to the workshop if you have any questions, https://toddsaal.com/contact/

Workshop with Dawn Whitelaw - SOLD OUT!
2024-10-19 09:00 - 16:00
THE LIGHT EFFECT
Hey, the light changed!
Dawn Whitelaw will teach practical ways to deal with different lighting conditions and ever moving light and shadow in plein air painting.
You will be learning about the light conditions you may encounter in the “wild.”
However, you will be indoors for this workshop. To get the most out of this class, you will want to replicate your plein air set up here in the studio as much possible.
12 spots available.
REGISTER HERE!
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 9:00AM – 4:00PM
Location: On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike, Franklin, TN 37067
Directions: Click here
Member Price: $75
Non-Member Price: $95
At this time, please only register if you are a current Chestnut Group member.
(Registration opens to Non-members September 28, 2024)
Supplies needed:
PLEIN AIR SET UP AND GEAR: Bring your easel, pack and anything you typically use to set up for plein air outside. (If you normally sit, bring your stool). In other words, bring all the stuff.
PAINT AND BRUSHES: Bring the selection of colors and tools that you normally like to use when you are plein air painting.
PAINTING MEDIUM: Bring the medium of your choice, if you use one.
ODORLESS SOLVENT IN AN UNBREAKABLE CONTAINER: Gamsol is preferred.
PAPER TOWELS AND TRASH BAGS.
SKETCHBOOK PENCIL AND ERASER: In addition to a sketchpad, pencil and eraser, bring any materials you use for preliminary sketches when plein air painting.
PANELS: Bring at least two the panels that you would use for Plein air painting. You can stain the canvas, if you wish, or work on white.
PHOTO REFERENCE: Bring a lot of plein air photo references. Try to bring references with different light effects. Be sure you include a couple of light and shadow reference. You can work from digital image or printed image, your choice.
LUNCH: Bring a sack lunch There is a refrigerator and a microwave here for your use.
If you have questions about this class or the supply list, email Andrea at
Studio@dawnwhitelaw.com. She works Tuesday and Thursday.

"The Colors of Shelby" Art Show and Sale
2024-10-31 09:30 - 2024-11-03 17:00
Visit our fall show, “The Colors of Shelby”!
This show will offer loyal Shelby supporters and nature enthusiasts the chance to own original artwork, painted ‘en plein air’ in this beloved community park. Participating local Chestnut artists donate almost half of the funds generated from art sales to support Friends of Shelby’s efforts to preserve and enhance Shelby Park and Bottoms native ecosystems, historic resources, and recreational improvements.
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center
1900 Davidson Street
Nashville, TN 37206
Preview Gallery HERE!

Member Meeting & Sketching Session - Sat, Feb 1st!
2025-02-01 10:00 - 16:00
Join us for the MEMBER MEETING on Saturday, FEBRUARY 1st!
Warner Park Nature Center
10:00 – 11:30AM
7311 TN-100
Nashville, TN 37221
Directions
Come hear about all the exciting events we have planned for 2025!
We will also hear from Jenny Hannon, President of Friends of Warner Parks, and learn more about what Warner Parks has to offer.
After the meeting, join us for “Winter Lines”.
Co-chairs Judson Newbern and Suzanne LeBeau will lead a sketching composition and values session along the Little Harpeth at Shelter #5 at Edwin Warner Park.
12:00pm
Free to members and all levels welcome!
Directions

Spring Workshops Open for Registration!
2025-02-02 08:00 - 2025-06-08 17:00
Spring ‘Paint Your Heart Out” Workshops are open for registration!
A few classes are coming up fast, check out:
Saturday, February 22nd with Kymberlee Stanley
“Setting Artistic Goals in 2025”
Saturday, March 1st, Judson Newbern & Jessica Lewis
“Framing Nature: Drawing as Art in the Landscape”
Sign up today and grab your seat!
Browse all the classes HERE!

"Meet & Critique" at Warehouse 521
2025-02-23 13:00 - 15:00
Hello Chestnuts!
Join us for a “Meet & Critique” Social!
Please join us for a casual gathering with fellow members, meet The Chestnut Group Board and participate in a roundtable critique. Bring any painting you’ve been working on.
Sunday, February 23
1:00 – 3:00pm
Let us know you are coming, click HERE to sign up!
Location:
Warehouse 521
521 Heather Place
Nashville, TN 37204
Parking:
Please park at the paved lot at 2828 Columbine (the sign says Additional Parking for Baja Burrito),
or in the gravel strip across from the warehouse.
This is open to ALL members and ALL levels.
Questions? Judson Newbern, judson.newbern@gmail.com or Lolly Brown, chestnuts.marketing@gmail.com

Paint out in Warner Park!
2025-03-02 12:00 - 16:00
Paint out in Warner Parks!
Sunday, March 2nd
12:00 – 4:00pm
Meet Cam Dolak at the Warner Parks Nature Center
7311 TN-100
Nashville, TN 37221
It’s time to get out and paint for our spring show! Capture the later winter colors and early spring blooms!!
Sign up and let Cam know you are coming
Sign up HERE!

Plein Air 101 Workshop
2025-03-22 09:30 - 15:30
Plein Air Painting 101: Getting Started
Never painted outside, or new to painting outside? No problem! Come join other newcomers to take the courageous leap into painting in the great outdoors!
Welcome to Plein Air 101, where we will spend a fun day of learning all about plein air painting: from the ins and outs of gear & how to set up to paint outside. We will discuss choosing a subject and how to mix colors from a limited palette, including all of those Tennessee greens. We will learn to ‘see’ outside as artists: how to identify and compose a scene, and break down the painting process into steps to create your first plein air painting. You will leave with a reference packet full of tips, tools, book titles, and artists to study further, as well as the confidence, and enthusiasm to create your next plein air piece!
In this class we will be exploring plein air painting from the warmth of the studio using slides and a screen.
TO SIGN UP, CLICK HERE!
Date: Saturday, March 22
9:30am – 3:30pm
Location:
On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike
Franklin, TN 37067
Directions, click here
Member Price: $75
Non-member price: $95 (Registration opens March 1 for non-members)
Supplies needed:

Bring what you have as far as a set-up and paints, and we will discuss different mediums and pros/cons.
Paper towels
3-5 brushes of varying sizes (I prefer bristle brushes with one softer finishing brush)
Brush washer (small metal canister to hold the gamsol) *Please do NOT bring turpentine or turpenoid type products!
Palette or palette paper (can be taped to a still wrapped canvas if you don’t have a palette)
Small canvas boards 5 x 7 or 8 x 10 so we can do some quick studies (or similar for other mediums)
Pencil or markers and paper for thumbnail sketches
Water bottle or drink
Lunch/snacks
Not mandatory, but helpful for plein air painting:

Palette knife
Sunscreen/hat, bug spray
Viewfinder, value finder, or similar small tools
Small bag to hang on your easel to collect dirty paper towels

Questions: Suzanne LeBeau, suzanne.lebeau22@gmail.com, 615-631-6346

"A Matter of Perspective" Workshop
2025-04-05 13:00 - 16:30
A Matter of Perspective Workshop
In this session we will examine “linear perspective” and “atmospheric perspective” and how these combine to provide believable renderings with depth and compelling compositions. This will begin with applying basic linear perspective concepts such as point of sight, horizon line, vanishing point and more. Next, we will explore “atmospheric perspective” and the roles of value change, color intensity, color temperature and visual clarity. Concepts will be applied by producing field notation drawings. Participants will be advised in evaluating views and taking sufficient photo documentation that, in combination with field sketches, will allow the completion of a finished painting at home. Some tutorial videos will be sent to attendees in advance.
To register, click here!
Class size: 10 spots
Instructors: Dale Finley and Judson Newbern
Date: Sat, April 5th
(Rain date: Sun, April 6th)
Time: 1:00pm – 4:30pm
Location: The Park at Harlinsdale Farm
Meet in the parking lot at Hayes House at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm
Directions: click here
Member Price: $50
Non-Member Price: $70
(Registration open to non-members, March 22)
Supplies needed:
A field sketch pad
Several lead pencils that allow blending
Kneaded eraser
Several color pencils suitable to make field notes on sketches.
Bring a folding chair
Questions: Judson Newbern, judson.newbern@gmail.com.

"Plein Air Study to Studio Piece" Workshop
2025-04-06 12:00 - 15:30
Plein Air Study to Studio Piece Workshop
Plein air painting offers a unique opportunity to engage with the scene, capturing vibrant colors and observing light, making it an essential aspect of an artist’s practice. While completing a piece outdoors is one approach, many artists prefer to use their work in the field for “taking notes” without the pressure of creating a finished piece. Back in the studio, we can take our time to reflect and plan, utilizing our plein air studies, along with photo references, to craft a more refined piece.
Together, we will delve into your artistic intentions and consider thoughtful adjustments—whether it’s refining the composition, enhancing the light, or altering the color palette. Ellen and Angela will provide guidance and recommend tools as we transform our field notes and unfinished plein air paintings into well-designed and meaningful studio work.
To register, click here!

Class size: 10 spots
Instructors: Ellen Parker Bibb and Angela Powers
Date: Sunday, April 6th
Time: 12:00 – 3:30pm
Location:
Warehouse 521
521 Heather Place
Nashville, TN 37204
Directions, click here
Member Price: $50
Non-member Price: $70
Supplies needed:

A previously painted plein air piece
Fresh canvas, and your usual set up.
Standing easels are available at the studio
A more detailed supply list will be provided upon registration

Questions: Ellen: epbibb@me.com or Angela: akkpowers@gmail.com

Frist Arts Fest featuring The Chestnut Group
2025-04-13 13:00 - 17:00
Visit the Frist Art Museum on Sunday April 13th!
1:00 – 5:00pm
Turner Courtyard
Observe the Chestnut Group and artists Ellen Parker Bibb, Lee Ann Burney, Cam Dolak, Judson Newbern, and Angela Powers as they create plein air paintings in the courtyard.
This plein air event is a celebration of their current Impressionist exhibit, Farm to Table: Art, Food, and Identity in the Age of Impressionism.
The Chestnut Group is honored to have the opportunity to share our mission and be featured by the Frist Art Museum, a cornerstone of Nashville’s arts community and a globally recognized cultural institution.
For more information, click here!

Spring Art Show: "Finding Sanctuary" with Friends of Warner Parks
2025-04-17 08:00 - 2025-04-20 17:00
“Finding Sanctuary”
Art Show and Sale with Friends of Warner Parks
April 17 – 20, 2025

Warner Park Nature Center
7311 TN-100
Nashville, TN 37221
For more about “Finding Sanctuary” Art Show this spring, click HERE!

"Plein Air 101" Workshop
2025-06-07 09:30 - 15:30
Plein Air Painting 101: Getting Started
Never painted outside, or new to painting outside? No problem! Come join other newcomers to take the courageous leap into painting in the great outdoors!
Welcome to Plein Air 101, where we will spend a fun day learning all about plein air painting: from the ins and outs of gear & how to set up to paint outside. We will discuss choosing a subject and how to mix colors from a limited palette, including all of those Tennessee greens. We will learn to ‘see’ outside as artists, which gives us great tools to bring in the studio! Learn how to identify and compose a scene, break down the painting process into steps, analyze values, and learn how to say when your outdoor piece is done! You will leave with a reference packet full of tips, tools, book titles, and artists to study further, as well as the confidence, and enthusiasm to create your next plein air piece!
In this class we will be exploring plein air painting from the warmth of the studio using slides and a screen.
To register, click here!
Class size: 10 spots
Instructor: Tiffany Foss
Date: Sat, June 7th
Time: 9:30 – 3:30pm
Location:
On Track Studios
1978 Wilson Pike
Franklin, TN 37067
Directions, click here!
Member Price: $75
Non-member price: $95 (Registration opens March 1 for non-members)
Supplies needed:
Easel and Paints – Bring what you have as far as a set-up and paints
Paper towels
Size 2,4,6, each of flat and filbert brushes – good quality like hogs hair or synthetic, flexible.
Brush washer (small metal canister to hold the gamsol) *Please do NOT bring turpentine or turpenoid type products!
Palette or palette paper (can be taped to a still wrapped canvas or a piece of thin plywood if you don’t have a palette)
Canvas boards sizes 8 x10, 9×12 or 11×14 – Bring at least two
Pencil and paper for thumbnail sketches
Viewfinder
Bug spray / sunscreen
Sun hat
Grocery bags for trash
Gloves/baby wipes
Phone/ camera for documenting the scene
Water bottles or drinks
Lunch/snacks
A way to carry wet paintings – pizza boxes or gift boxes work
Patience and curiosity
A folding chair if you prefer to sit
Questions? Tiffany Foss, tiffanyfossfineart@gmail.com

On the Easel - Online Member Show
2025-06-19 08:00 - 2026-06-19 17:00
The Chestnut Group Member Online Gallery
Discover original works by the talented artists of The Chestnut Group in our On the Easel online gallery—now live!
This curated collection features one-of-a-kind pieces, many painted en plein air, capturing the beauty of Tennessee and beyond. Whether you’re a collector, art lover, or looking for a meaningful gift, there’s something special waiting for you.
🖼️ SHOP THE ONLINE GALLERY HERE
Bring home a piece of inspired local art.
Support local artists. Support the land they love.

Tennessee Landscapes Art Show at AshBlue
2025-08-01 10:00 - 2025-09-30 18:00
Join us for Tennessee Landscapes Art Show at Ashblue!
August 1 – September 30, 2025
We’re excited to share that Tennessee Landscapes returns to AshBlue this summer for a two-month showcase featuring original artwork by members of The Chestnut Group.
This special exhibit celebrates the scenic beauty of Middle Tennessee, captured on canvas by local plein air painters who are inspired by the land and committed to conservation.
20% of all art sales will benefit The Land Trust for Tennessee, supporting their vital mission to protect open spaces and preserve the natural beauty of our region.
Come explore the show, connect with local artists, and take home a piece of Tennessee you’ll treasure.
Open to the Public:
10:00 – 6:00pm – Monday – Friday
10:00 – 5:00pm – Saturday
Closed Sundays
AshBlue
2170 Bandywood Drive
Nashville, TN 37215

AshBlue Opening Night!
2025-08-07 04:00 - 18:00
You’re invited to the opening night of
TENNESSEE LANDSCAPES ART SHOW
Thursday, August 7th
4:00 – 6:00PM
Enjoy cocktails and small bites while browsing the beautiful work of local artists!
*20% of all sales benefit The Land Trust for Tennessee*
AshBlue
2170 Bandywood Drive
Nashville, TN 37215

Paint Livingston - Plein Air Art Competition
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-10-04 17:00
The Second Annual Paint Livingston Plein Air Competition & Art Sale will take place on Saturday, October 1 – 4, 2025!
The center piece of this event is a group of professional and amateur plein air painters who will set up their easels in and around Livingston on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, Oct 2-4, to paint and compete for $5,000 in cash prizes.
Click HERE to read the Participating Artist Prospectus.
You don’t want to miss this exciting event!
For more information and apply to this event, click here!

Fall Art Show: "Painting the Parks" with Friends of Franklin Parks
2025-11-06 09:00 - 2025-11-09 16:00
“Painting the Parks”
with Friends of Franklin Parks
November 6 – 9, 2025
Hayes House
331 Franklin Road
Franklin, TN 37064
Thursday, November 9 – 9AM to 4PM
Friday, November 7 – 9AM to 9PM
Saturday, November 8 – 9AM to 6PM
Sunday, November 9 – 12PM to 4PM
