Painting outside and capturing a scene just as it is in that exact moment is a tradition artists have revered for hundreds of years — and it’s back in St. Augustine for the ninth year.
Presented by the St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA), artists are invited to participate in the annual Plein Air Paint Out, April 23-27. This time-honored method simply translates to “painting outdoors.” Plein Air Paint Out brings diverse artists into the streets of St. Augustine, from the grounds of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to the beaches of Anastasia Island.
“In 2016, I worked with the staff to revive this tradition, and in the spring of 2017, we successfully launched the event, ensuring that plein air painting remains a vital part of our artistic landscape,” said Catherine St. Jean, artist and incoming STAAA board president. “Since the first Paint Out in 2017, it has become the St. Augustine Art Association’s premier event, bridging our artistic history with the present. Each year, 70-plus artists from near and far set up their easels throughout the Nation’s Oldest City, capturing its charm in real time while engaging with the public. This celebration of outdoor painting showcases the incredible talent of participating artists and highlights the breathtaking beauty and deep history of St. Augustine.”
More than just painting in the streets, there are multiple events throughout the week for artists and locals.
Works-in-progress and finished paintings can be viewed and purchased online and in-gallery from the STAAA’s “Wet Room.” The gallery will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
On Friday, April 25, at 12:30 p.m., meet and mingle with artists for a picnic and painting in the Radzinski Family Garden at the Lightner Museum, 75 King St. This event is free for registered plein air artists and $30 for nonartists (tickets include lunch).
On Saturday, April 26, at 11 a.m., come to the STAAA, 22 Marine St., for a free live painting demonstration with Plein Air judge Steven Walker, who will share his insights and expertise.
On Sunday, April 27, from noon to 3 p.m., enjoy a free pop-up exhibit at the St. Augustine Yacht Club, 442 Ocean Vista Ave., where artists will exhibit one completed work from the week. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., the exhibit will be judged in person for awards. Tickets are very limited and are $35 for artists and $50 for nonartists. Tickets include food and drink, and all artwork will be for sale.
Interested in painting en plein air? Register online today. Registration is $55 for STAAA members and $80 for nonmembers. Artists must be 18 years or older.
For more event information, to register to paint, or to purchase tickets, go to www.staaa.org/plein-air-paint-out.
