Two of the world's foremost international landscape painting groups-Landscape Artists International (LAI) and International Plein Air Painters (IPAP)-have come together to organize the international art exhibition "Far and Near Horizons," in an attempt to create environmental awareness and stewardship of the land, as well as to promote an appreciation for landscape painting. "The mission of this tour is to act as a bridge between countries of the world to foster environmental awareness," says "Far and Near" founder Linda Richichi. "The art on the canvas becomes a universal language and acts as an ambassador between different cultures. Art is a bridge bringing us together."

American Falls by J.R. Baldini, 2007, oil on linen, 8 x 8. Collection the artist.	Streambank Willow, Morning Light by Karl Leitzel, 2007, oil,  20 x 20. Collection the artist.

This unique gathering of landscape artists from around the globe, featuring 30 artists representing five countries, launched in June 2007 at the Karpeles Museum, in Newburgh, New York. There are a number of additional stops on the tour's upcoming schedule, including The Link Gallery, in Fish Creek, Wisconsin, April 21 through May 21; The Art Center of Estes, in Estes Park, Colorado, June 1 through July 6; Old School House Arts Centre, in Qualicum Beach, Vancouver, British Columbia, July 21 through August 18; and Terrace Gallery, in Orlando, Florida, September 18 through January 4, 2009.

For more information, visit www.landscapeartistsinternational.com/World_Tour/about.html.

Southern Head by Michael Chesley Johnson, 2007, oil,  9 x 12. Collection the artist.	After the Morning Feeding by Karl Leitzel, 2008, oil, 15 x 30. Collection the artist.	Water Song by Michael Chesley Johnson, 2007, oil, 9 x 12. Collection the artist.