A major showing of new aerospace art, the American Society of Aviation Artists 2008 International Aerospace Art Exhibit, opened at The Museum of Flight on Friday, June 13. This juried show featured over 50 paintings and sculptures by artists from around the world. Many of the exhibiting artists attended the ASAA Annual Forum at the Museum from June 16-21. The Forum included public workshops, panel discussions and a Youth Art Class. Museum visitors had the unique opportunity of meeting and learning from some of today’s most talented aerospace artists. A panel discussion with five artists opened to Museum visitors on Saturday, June 21.

Aerospace art upholds a rich tradition of narrative painting, displaying technical mastery of the medium and historical accuracy in aviation and space related subject matter. Many aerospace artists also take the genre into new directions with work that is fanciful and abstract.

Renowned Seattle-based classical artist Juliette Aristides selected the artworks for the exhibition. “The paintings exhibited by the group are noteworthy for their innovative compositions and their high standards for excellence,” said Aristides. “They are not only technically and historically accurate but also imaginative. Thanks to them I have seen planes in a whole new light.” Aristides was one of the three artists that led the Youth Art Class on Saturday, June 21.

In addition to Aristides, the Forum featured well-known aerospace artists Keith Ferris and Robert McCall, both of whom have major paintings on permanent display in the National Air and Space Museum. Local artist and aviator Erik Lindbergh was also a Forum speaker.

This exhibit closed Sept. 14, 2008.