Steve Thomas’ San Luis Obispo County
Steve Thomas’ new print truly encompasses San Luis Obispo County from North to South. Between the bustling downtown life, historical landmarks, Cal Poly Mustang pride and seemingly endless coastline; there is truly a piece of all our beloved communities. Carefully observe the intertwining of Thomas’ past works as well as new pieces to be released in the future…
Mission San Miguel
What better way to start the lettering of this piece than by starting with the history of San Luis Obispo County’s most Northern point. Founded in 1797, the San Miguel Mission continues to serve as a meaningful symbol for the beautiful Central Coast as a home for worship, love and unity.
*COMING SOON
The image you have of San Luis Obispo County likely contains one of numerous wineries in the gorgeous Paso Robles. Home to over 200 wineries, this city consistently brings in wine enthusiasts and newcomers to see just how much care is put into the vilification process. The letter “A” is just a small seed compared to the acres and acres of charming wine country to experience.
Atascadero City Hall
Completed in 1918 only to undergo the harsh effects of the 2003 San Simeon earthquake, this historic landmark proves just how strong and long-lasting this county is. Visiting this special monument as Thomas did, will certainly build your appreciation for the grace that the Atascadero City Hall beholds both then, and now.
*COMING SOON
Once called a “museum like no other” with the incredible surroundings of zebras, this simple “L” contains a complex and rich history that only adds to the character of San Luis Obispo County. Following the death of his mother, William Randolph Hearst used his inherited 250,000 acres of land and collaborated with architect Julia Morgan to create “La Cuesta Encantada” which quite literally translates to “Enchanted Hill”. By painting this landmark, Thomas pays homage to the great Hearst who filled this castle with legendary pieces of art that continue to bring wonder to the naked eye.
As a nonlocal, like Thomas, visits San Luis Obispo county, one is bound to come across the coastline of Highway 1, that starts with none other than Moonstone Beach in northern Cambria. The contrast between serene sealing shores and rocky headlands is captured in not only this letter, but in several communities within the county.
As you continue South, you will see what seems to be an insignificant glimpse of Cayucos, but in reality, is a highly cherished California beach resort town without the high population of tourists. Sunset Magazine describes this little paradise as "immune to over-development for decades, despite its great wines to the east and white sandy beaches to the west” (2009).
As Thomas attempts to compress all opportunities for a good time in this small “S”, it is quite impossible to show all of what a San Luis Obispo visitor can see and do. Whether it is catching a show at Fremont theater, spending a paycheck at one of many quaint boutiques or going to our very own Just Looking Gallery, this downtown in itself could be a little city that never sleeps.
With city life, comes the delightful opposite of nature. Just one of endless spots, is the preserved Montaña de Oro, specifically a hiker’s favorite…Bluff Trail. Thomas perfectly captures the dramatic cliffs that edge this trail that open the eyes to spectacular views.
Out of the numerous areas of coastline, the college student population and locals in general, most certainly show how dominant Avila Beach Hilltop is for a weekend beach trip. The picturesque views of the sand, pier, surfers and just about anything else show the variety of beauty that San Luis Obispo presents through Thomas’ painting.
Shell Beach has rather an opposing environment to Avila Beach Hilltop, but is just as magnificent in terms of untouched and vast beauty. This hidden gem is surprisingly difficult to find on a map, so do not let the cliché name of “Shell Beach” fool you…it certainly did not fool Thomas.
Serving as the reserved friend to an outspoken Avila Beach Hilltop, the Pismo beach area quietly accommodates all walks of life with its grace and sense of comfort. Thomas captures the feeling of weight being lifted off your shoulders as cooler tones show an overall chiller lifestyle.
Nearly reaching the end of Thomas’ journey through San Luis Obispo, one sees the heart of gold that Arroyo Grande has to offer. Full of charm and the classic coastal look of San Luis Obispo County, this little city treats one like family, with a send off made of pure kindness and literal warmer tones.
It is in the letter “O” where Thomas arrives in his final Southern destination. What appears to be another sandy image is actually regarded as the largest remaining dune system south of San Francisco and the second largest in the U.S. state of California. This just shows how when one thinks this county could not offer any more, it sneakily reveals more triumphant areas to explore.