The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley will host another special exhibit and sale of early California Plein Air art from the private collection of actor and Big Bear resident, Richard Moll.  The exhibit will be open from July 3 through August 15.  This is the second year for a special exhibit of pieces from Moll’s collection.

Moll is best known for his portrayal of Bailiff Bull Shannon, on the NBC hit series, “Night Court” from 1983 to 1991.  An avid art collector, he specialized in early California art done in the “Plein Air” style, which is a French term for “in the open air.”  Painters who worked in the Plein Air method were primarily Impressionists, who sat in front of the image they wanted to paint and usually finished the piece in one sitting.  The Plein Air method relates primarily to landscape paintings.

This year’s exhibit will include not only landscapes, but some Western art as well.  Several pieces feature early American cowboys, several depicting mountain landscapes and one very charming young American Indian boy, sure to be a popular piece of the exhibit.

Moll commented, “California Plein Air is highly collectible investment art.  Its value has dramatically increased and with the current economy, now is the right time to purchase.”

The opening reception will be Saturday, July 3 at 7 p.m. at The Gallery in the Village.  Refreshments will be served and the public is invited.  Moll will attend the opening of the exhibit and all paintings will be offered for sale.

The Gallery is located at 40750 Village Drive, Big Bear Lake.  For more information, call the Arts Council Executive Director, Gail McCarthy at 909-585-5916.