In the late 1800s artists flocked to the exciting young city of San Francisco and explored, photographed and painted the beauty of Northern California. All of the famous artists included in this exhibition lived in Marin County at some point in their careers and spent time here in Bolinas and painting the surrounding area.

Many of these artists were widely recognized in their own time—some were highly trained and others were self-taught. And while influences varied from the East Coast schools of painting to Japanese aesthetics, the common denominator was the ever-changing light, sensual hills and magnificent coastline that drew them all to Coastal Marin. Thanks to the generosity of those who donate art or contribute financial support, the Bolinas Museum continues to collect, preserve, and exhibit paintings by many of these noteworthy artists. As we worked on this exhibition we discovered a wealth of material, both in collections here in Bolinas and a bit farther afield, and we are grateful to those who have generously loaned their treasures to this exhibition celebrating the Bolinas Museum’s 30th Anniversary year and the beautiful landscape we share.

Historical Paintings of Coastal Marin