Last week a group of us from F+W headed to Reno, Nevada, for the National Art Materials Trade Association (NAMTA) convention and trade show, where we were able to see some of the newest products on the market from more than 200 exhibitors. Not only was it great to meet some of the manufacturers and retailers, but to see these materials in action—either by playing with them ourselves or watching an artist do so—was quite exciting!

Fortunately, new trends this year included earth-friendly products and supplies—as Maureen, the editor of our sister publication, The Artist’s Magazine, said, “green is the new primary color”—so be on the lookout for more eco-friendly art information in the future.

On our last day, as the convention was coming to a close, Maureen and I ventured out into town for a trip to the Nevada Museum of Art (NMA). A modest space, the museum has a great collection that includes some California scene painters—and hosts worthwhile exhibitions such as “Frank Lloyd Wright & The House Beautiful” (on display through July 20). We took the museum associate’s suggestion to start at the top of the building, where a playful, dancing rabbit lured us out onto the rooftop terrace. The hare, Barry Flanagan's bronze sculpture, Large Left-Handed Drummer, is a big deal for the museum: Newly arrived, it last exhibited at Union Square Park in Manhattan. (It should be noted also that NMA restaurant Café Musée is excellent.)

And now, some photos: