Mariana Peirano

I’m honored my painting “Let Us Weep” was chosen to be on the banner for the Ojai Valley Museum. The banner announces OSA’s Group Exhibition “As We See It”, which runs August 20 to October 12. This is one of my most recent paintings and was inspired by a Robin Wall Kimmerer quote from her book Braiding Sweetgrass. I found the poem to be very relevant today. This is one of my largest paintings so far. I wanted to challenge myself and try something big in preparation for my move to Ajijic, Mexico where I plan to work on murals. It will be on display along with artwork from more than 60 OSA artists. The reception will be on Friday, August 21, from 5-7 pm. I hope to see you there.

I had so much fun working on this project! I was part of a group of artists chosen to paint rain barrels! H2Ojai is a youth-led environmental project that brings together art and sustainability to spark a stronger community response to drought. The initiative installed five artist-painted rain barrels in visible locations around Ojai. By turning functional infrastructure into public art, the project encourages everyday conservation while making water stewardship more engaging, accessible, and culturally rooted in the community. My barrel is stationed at Rainbow Bridge. You'll see it at the entrance when you walk in. So delighted to have been part of this project.

I’m moving to Mexico! While my husband and I had always planned our retirement in Mexico, an opportunity presented itself this year and this seems to be the right time to make the move. We are moving to Ajijic in the Lake Chapala area which is about 30 miles south of Guadalajara, in the state of Jalisco. Ajijic is very bohemian in nature with artists, writers, actors, and musicians drawn to the region. Therefore I believe we will fit right in! This will be my last year with OSA and thus my last 2nd Saturday and tour. I hope you’ll have a chance to stop by and say hello but also take the opportunity to take some art with you. EVERYTHING will be discounted , as I cannot take everything with me when I go. If for any reason those dates do not work for you and you still want to visit, please let me know and we can set something up. Meanwhile, between trips back and forth to set up our new life, I have managed to keep the creative juices flowing. I must admit I have been writing more and painting less. Mostly I’ve been painting the words. In a way combining both. Hope to see you in May so you can find out more. Mariana