A Vista Treasure

                  The past, present and future of art in Vista are attractively framed in an octogenarian as full of life’s hues as the watercolors, oils and mixed media decorating her home. Most pieces were created by the homeowner herself. Longtime Vistan Dorothy Jaques has been actively involved in the vibrant North County art community since the early 1970s.

                  Award ribbons overflow a shoebox in the garage of this woman whose modesty about her accomplishments is overshadowed by her considerable talents. Her work has been featured in exhibits from the Rancho Buena Vista Adobe Gallery to the San Diego Museum of Art. A favorite original hangs in the home of an elected local official.     

                  Jaques was instrumental in the founding and furthering of organizations such as the 1990s-era Vista Initiative for the Visual Arts (VIVA) and the Vista Art Foundation (VAF). In fact, her friendship with famous watercolorist Thelma Speed Houston led actor and avid Houston collector Ken Jenkins (Dr. Kelso on “Scrubs”) to work with Jaques on a VAF fundraising retrospective of Houston’s work in 2007.

Dorothy Jaques with one of her paintings

Art Generates Connections and Connects Generations

                  From her Paris-purchased Monet tote bag to the plethora of works that come alive within her abode, Jaques’ home exudes art, warmth and vitality. Fresh from a recent “paint out” plein air excursion with artist friends, she confides, “Art came to my rescue when my son died in 1975 and it has suddenly come back into my life now, two years after my husband died. Art helps keep you sharp as you age. Unlike some activities, it is something you can do, enjoy and excel at all your life.”

                  Jaques says she is delighted to see art alive and well at ArtBeat on Main Street. “I’m very impressed by ArtBeat. I like the diversity and the downtown location. The art is accessible and so are the artists. In fact, my daughter, Lizzie Lawrence, is taking classes at the Gallery.”

                  ArtBeat co-owners Kris Petersen and Kait Matthews say they are humbled and excited to be part of the art continuum in Vista. They note, “Having Dorothy Jaques as a Gallery guest adds a wonderful touch of class to ArtBeat. Having her daughter hone her skills here is very exciting.”

                  They believe, “Creativity connects people and generations. The Jaques family makes togetherness an art!”