If you’re looking for things to do in Oxnard or planning a visit to Channel Islands Harbor, don’t miss an inspiring evening of art and the sea at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum.

On Thursday, July 16, 2026, the museum’s new Artist in Residence, Jem Atwater, will present a live seascape painting demonstration as part of the museum’s popular Speaker Series. The one-hour event, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., offers guests a unique opportunity to watch a professional artist transform a blank canvas into a stunning ocean scene while sharing the techniques, inspiration, and creative process behind her work.

Meet Channel Islands Maritime Museum’s New Artist in Residence

Jem Atwater is a classically trained oil painter and fine art instructor based in Ventura. She earned her degree from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where she studied traditional painting techniques with an emphasis on composition, color, and visual storytelling.

Since relocating to Ventura County in 2022, Atwater has dedicated her career to making fine art education accessible to the community. She teaches at the Santa Paula Art Museum, Oxnard Performing Arts Center, Raminfard School of Arts, and her private studio at Pacific and Main Creative Workspace in Ventura.

Over the past five years, she has taught more than 4,200 students, helping artists of all ages discover the beauty of classical oil painting.

As the Channel Islands Maritime Museum’s Artist in Residence, Atwater will continue sharing her passion for the ocean through demonstrations, education, and maritime-inspired artwork.

Experience Maritime Art in Channel Islands Harbor

Located along the scenic waterfront of Channel Islands Harbor, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is home to one of the West Coast’s finest collections of maritime art, ship models, and nautical history.

Before the demonstration, visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s galleries featuring historic maritime paintings, intricate ship models, and exhibits celebrating the region’s rich seafaring heritage. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for Oxnard museums, Channel Islands Harbor attractions, or unique cultural experiences in Ventura County.

Event Details

What: Speaker Series – Live Seascape Painting Demonstration with Artist in Residence Jem Atwater

Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026

Time: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Location: Channel Islands Maritime Museum, 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard, CA

Tickets are available through the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Advance reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. BUY TICKETS HERE