South County artist paints the town

If we ever name a painter laureate of the Pajaro Valley, Heidi Gottfried is a strong candidate. Her reception last Friday at Pagecraft CopyBean, 550 Main St., provided a wide variety of works justifying that honor.

Her light and colorful painting "Chicano Garden" at one end of the room was contrasted at the other end by "Twilight," a brooding scene of berry pickers working late under a rising moon. Other titles read like a Pajaro Valley travel guide: "Welcome to Watsonville," "Beach Street," "Plaza Lights," "Del Monte," "Martinelli’s" and "Nuestra Senora de Pinto Lake."

Among the guests at Heidi’s reception were Harry & Clarice Wiggins, Elena Tufo, Helen Manson, Bob & Dottie Newick, Owen Lawlor, Barbara Kambitsch, Mary Brown, Marj Dial, Tanya Grey and Rose Ehrlich.

When I expressed admiration for the technical detail in her works, Heidi shared her stylistic secret: "I take my time, because when I rush it looks like mush." A selection of her careful work will remain displayed at CopyBean through March, and others can be seen at the Mansion House Restaurant, 420 Main St.

Anyone interested in purchasing one of Heidi’s works can best reach her during the next few weeks at the Third High School Public Information Center, 504 Main St., 763-3801. While you’re at it, get informed about the third high school. Knowledge is power.

POSTCARD POSTSCRIPT

While attending the Gottfried display, I noticed a rack containing postcards with Watsonville scenes captured by CopyBean co-owner and skilled photographer Carmen Rivas.