Lillian Kirbo Ansley earned her BFA from Lamar Dodd School of Art in Graphic Design, going on to receive a graduate degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Medical Illustration. Crediting her professional art career for introducing her to the marketing and communication world, Lillian completed the Executive Marketing Program at the Roberto C. Goizueta Business School at Emory University, and today works for Kirbo + Ansley, a virtual communication and design firm. Lillian is also the co-founder of the Olmsted Plein Air Invitational based in Atlanta, Georgia, and serves on the Board of Visitors, the advisory board for Lamar Dodd School of Art.

In its 6th year of operation, the Olmsted Plein Air Invitational is one of the most prestigious plein air painting competitions in the United States. Every spring, it is held in Atlanta, Georgia, and attracts national and international plein air painters. This year, 29 of the most esteemed contemporary plein air artists will share their work the week of April 28 - July 31, 2020.

Lillian's inspiration for starting the Olmsted Plein Air Invitational began in Cortona, Italy, where she had the opportunity to study abroad, during her time at the Lamar Dodd School of Art. Traveling abroad and studying with other artists opened her eyes to different disciplinary areas, including interior design and landscape architecture. 

This microcosm of artists helped her understand how art formed a bond that was inclusive and respectful, bringing an entire community together. She stated that she became acutely aware of how art transcends beyond socio-economic and was not something that was enjoyed and discussed behind closed doors, as she had once understood. 

To learn more about Lillian and her inspiration to co-found the Olmstead Plein Air Invitational, visit her podcast. 
 

Image: “Almond Blossoms and Branches", Jill Steenhuis