Echoes of Yosemite

Echoes of Yosemite brings together the majestic vision of Yosemite through two lenses: the classic landscapes of 19th-century landscape painter William Keith (1838-1911) and the vibrant interpretations of contemporary California Art Club (CAC) artists.

This exhibition highlights Keith’s sweeping depictions of Yosemite’s rugged cliffs and serene valleys, while contemporary works offer fresh perspectives on the iconic landscape and its wildlife that celebrate the splendor of the Sierra Nevada. Each work echoes the enduring inspiration of Yosemite, reflecting its timeless beauty and the ongoing dialogue between nature and art.

About William Keith: 

William Keith (1838–1911) was a Scottish-American landscape painter renowned for his evocative depictions of the American West, particularly the majestic scenery of California. After immigrating to the United States in the mid-19th century, Keith settled in San Francisco, where he became a central figure in the California art scene. Keith's earlier detailed work reflects influences of the Hudson River School, while his later work embraces atmospheric tonal qualities pulling from romanticism and the Barbizon school. Keith maintained a close friendship with naturalist John Muir, as the two shared a deep reverence for the wilderness, which is reflected in Keith’s dramatic portrayals of Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada, and coastal redwoods. Keith's paintings played a key role in shaping the visual identity of California and the American West at the turn of the 20th century.

About the California Art Club

Founded in 1909, the California Art Club is a 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit organization built on the foundation of promoting and supporting contemporary-traditional fine art. As one of the oldest, largest and most active art organizations in the country, the CAC is committed to keeping traditional art alive and believe that our unique outreach programs will continue to attract new generations of artists and patrons alike.