8th Annual America's Great Plein Air Paint-Out - May 2-12

[Jill Tanner]

Nationally known artists gather to capture what some believe to be the last vestige of authentic "Old Florida" from May 2 - 12. From the western end of Mexico Beach to the east side of Alligator Point, artists can be seen painting alongside the roads overlooking the Gulf, as well as in out-of-the-way settings. Artists from across the States, as well as international locations, capture images of nature, flora & fauna, and local color in the Plein Air tradition.



The Forgotten Coast America's Great Plein Air Paint-Out is comprised of daily artist demonstrations, workshops, and sales of locally created art in exhibit rooms in Apalachicola, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach. The public is invited to four receptions; May 4th at Salinas Park in Cape San Blas from 4-6pm (EST), May 6th at the Carrabelle History Museum from 4-6pm (EST), May 7th at the St. George Island Lighthouse & Visitors' Center from 4-6pm (EST), and May 9th at the Mexico Beach Welcome Center from 4-6pm (EST).



The public is encouraged to visit the Wetroom exhibit located at 234 Reid Avenue in Port St. Joe where artists deliver fresh paintings daily. Additional art will be exhibited at the Apalachicola Center for History, Culture and Art as well as the Mexico Beach Visitors' Center. These exhibits are offered at no charge and the public is encouraged to attend the many other free events that occur throughout the 10 day paint-out. A complete schedule of events, including artist demonstrations and special events, is available online at www.pleinairfl.com.

America's Great Plein Air Paint-Out is coordinated by the Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition, a non-profit organization established to produce regional multi-community cultural events that improve the quality of life for the coastal area. The communities of Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Apalachicola, Eastpoint, St. George Island, Carrabelle, and Alligator Point have joined forces to produce the most impressive art event along the coast. According to Joe Taylor, the event chairperson, “Many local artists gather and paint alongside the event's invited artists; it is amazing to see the art being created." Support from both the Gulf and Franklin County Tourist Development Councils as well as Visit Florida insure the event has gained a national following.
Visit the Plein Air website for schedules and additional information.

 

[Jill Tanner]

The hosts of this year's America's Great Plein Art Paint-Out along the Forgotten Coast of Florida are excited to announce the time and place for the Plein Air QUICKDRAW event. On Saturday May 4th 2013, at 10 am EST the competition will begin. The QUICKDRAW competition will be held at the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park at the tip of Cape San Blas. Judging is at noon. All artists, professional and amateur, are invited to capture "The Cape's" stunning seascapes and marsh vistas in the plein air tradition.

In addition to the novelty of watching the artists at work, there will be music, children's art projects and the opportunity to be the first to purchase a unique piece of art. The very definition of Plein Air painting, from the French meaning "open air," limits artists to the changes in atmosphere which makes for a perfect 'quickdraw' platform.

The QUICKDRAW is a prestigious opportunity for budding, accomplished and seasoned artists to put their talents to the test. Artists are required to register on-line at www.pleinairfl.com where the $10.00 entry fee can be paid, or the fee can be collected the day of the event.

Come join the fun, look over the shoulders of the artists as they capture the Plein Air process faster than usual, and enjoy all that the Cape has to offer in unique beauty.

Dr. Ashley White of the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala FL will judge this year's entries. Prizes of cash and certificates will be awarded on-site.

Original artwork will be available for purchase on the spot and winning pieces will be moved to a special display area in the "Wetroom" located at 234 Reid Avenue in Port St. Joe.

See: www.pleinairfl.com for schedules and additional information.