A Plein Air Easton 2023 Preview

Plein Air Easton, the largest and most prestigious outdoor art competition in the nation, is celebrating its 19th year in Easton this July 14-23. Plein Air Easton is a week-long art festival and competition. Fifty-eight artists from the world over are juried into the competition each year and will complete two competition artworks and one 6x8 artwork that will be judged for thousands of dollars in prizes. There are ticketed events, painting events where everyone can paint, free art exhibits showcasing the work that’s been completed during the week, lectures, painting demos, and even kid-friendly paint-outs, activities, and exhibits.

The week starts with a Kick-off Party, Gallery Walk, and more on Friday, July 14th in downtown Easton. Make a point to stop into the official Plein Air Easton Headquarters (40 S Harrison Street, Easton, MD) often during the week to view the exhibit of juried artist’s work. The inventory on display in Headquarters will expand throughout the week and, as paintings are sold, they will be replaced with new paintings so if you fall in love with a painting, buy it before it’s gone. PAE Headquarters is the place to be if you need information about the festival, to pick up a schedule of events, buy a frame from our pop-up frame vendor, or sit in the cool air conditioning while listening to an on-stage discussion or watch demos taking place on the stage. Free and open to the public.

Pop-up art exhibits and opportunities to see the competition artists in action will be ongoing with events in Oxford and Tilghman Island while Local Color, an exhibit featuring local juried artists will open on Thursday, July 20 in Easton.

You don’t want to miss the Collector’s Preview Party, Friday, July 21. Juried artists have been painting all week long, have selected two of their best works, and will submit them for judging and awards. The Collector’s Preview Party is the first opportunity to see the entire collection housed in the acclaimed Academy Art Museum. Buy tickets now as this event will sell out!

The weekend of July 22 and 23rd will be bustling with excitement. The famous Plein Air Easton Quick Draw Competition, kid’s art exhibits and painting competition, Small Painting Sunday, and this year’s Judge’s talk will fill up your weekend.

Plein Air Easton is the work of the Avalon Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to foster a strong community on the Eastern Shore by creating accessible, uplifting arts, education, and cultural experiences that appeal to the interests of a diverse population and ensure the long term viability of the historic Avalon Theatre. The event is supported by the Talbot Arts, corporate donors, Friends of Plein Air Easton, a small army of volunteers, and strong community support.

To plan your visit now, or to learn more about how to support the event through donation see our travel guide, visit our website, email [email protected], or call the Avalon Foundation’s Plein Air Easton hotline at 410.822.7297.