Elaine Jason, based in the Lake Tahoe area of Northern California since 1982, is a professional artist and art educator with over 40 years of experience. Born in Los Angeles, she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Chouinard Art Institute (now California Institute of the Arts). In 2012, she received a Pollock-Krasner Foundation grant, and the Andy Warhol Foundation funded a catalog of her work spanning 25 years, along with lectures accompanying her solo exhibitions. Jason’s art has been showcased in numerous solo exhibitions and juried competitions, including a notable 1997 exhibition at the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles. “Shadows” is the wood sculpture Elaine made for the Ranch House’s yard.

“I first became aware of BCAC from Steve Hardy, owner and director of the art center. Steve saw my wood and mixed media sculptures on Instagram and invited me to visit. I was very impressed by the beautiful grounds and the quality of the outdoor sculptures.

Steve invited me to participate in a residency for the month of September 2024 and I accepted. It is the first artist residency I have experienced and was very positive. The other artists were wonderful to work with and have become good friends.

I had no expectations, and I was hesitant before arriving. Once I was there, the creative atmosphere took over plus the camaraderie of the other artists made a positive experience.

The tools and equipment in the wood studio were excellent and allowed me to make a large sculpture to be placed on the grounds.”

– Elaine Jason

Artist’s Interview