Astrid Preston’s paintings remind you how much hard work can be required in art. Van Gogh tried pointillism and gave up, finding it too arduous. Astrid’s art is as meticulous as it is breathtakingly beautiful. Her landscapes and views of nature are incredibly photographically detailed and abstract at the same time.

Her current work “east west spring fall,” going on exhibit at the Craig Krull Gallery from October 16 – November 20, is an intricate exploration of vines, leaves, plants, and cherry blossoms. It’s fun to see how an artist’s travels influence style: Astrid, born in Stockholm, living in Santa Monica, recently traveled to Japan, Germany, Italy, and France.

Craig Krull Gallery: Bergamot Station, 2525 Michigan Avenue, Building B-3 Santa Monica, California 90404.  Tel: (310) 828-6410 .