Local watercolorist has what it takes

By Billy Martin

'White Rose' by Joe Cibere

It is something known but intangible. When something works, it works because the artist has it. Of course, it is not limited to artists. We all know what it is, we just can’t put our finger on it. It can’t be learned. You’ve either got it or you don’t.

Joe Cibere has it. As a watercolor artist he has what it is and what it takes. How would I know? Not only do I know Cibere, I know his work. And fortunately, others can see for themselves if he has it.

Image Arts Gallery in Westlake Village will host a reception for this internationally acclaimed local artist on Sat., Feb. 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. Cibere’s collection will be shown through Feb. 26.

At the reception, visitors will have a chance to meet the artist and gain insight into his painting style and philosophy as they wander among his work. Cibere’s love of nature is evident in his artwork.

Joe Cibere

The artist’s medium of choice is watercolor. As only he can say seriously, "It paints itself."

His abstract realism paintings integrate strong design and balance with a sense of illusion. They have appeared in Watercolor magazine and in last year’s International Artists book "The Watercolor Sky and Cloud Techniques of 23 International Artists."

Cibere teaches at the California Art Institute in Thousand Oaks and has been a guest demonstrator at many area art organizations. His workshops on watercolor technique are taught throughout the year.

More than 50 of Cibere’s original art and limited edition Giclee art prints will be available and can be framed or reframed on the premises. One can be purchased for under $100. These one-off digital reproductions display color like nothing else.

A Thousand Oaks resident for more than 25 years, Cibere began his commercial art career in the Midwest. After moving to California, he worked as a freelance illustrator/designer until 1991.   He now works in the advertising marketing business as a partner in Westlake Marketing Works. He credits his background in commercial art for his success in watercolor because of the discipline required.

"The challenge is to know when to stop and let the medium take over. That’s why the most successful paintings seem almost effortless," Cibere said. "I always look forward to interacting with art patrons and other artists to give feedback about the creative process and affirm that visual expression is one of the great joys in life."

Image Arts Gallery is located at 960 Westlake Boulevard, Ste. 10, in Westlake Village, next to Jack’s Restaurant and Kirk Jewelers.

For more information, call Matthew Biniaz at Image Arts Gallery, (805) 449-1555.

To see Cibere’s work online, visit www.joecibere.com.

Now you see it. After Feb. 26, you don’t.