Outdoor art contest returns to Jasper, Dubois County for third year

Artists will be working in the elements Friday and Saturday as part of the Jasper Community Arts third annual Plein Air and Quick Draw event.

Plein Air, simply described, is painting outdoors rather than in a studio. The term comes from the French ‘en Plein Air,’ meaning ‘in the open air’. Artists taking part in the Plein Air event will be setting up around the county to paint the picturesque scenery.

The Impressionists were particularly interested in the influence of changing light and the effects of light on color when outdoors. Monet is a popular example of a Plein air painter.

The Quick Draw Event is a Plein Air competition, exhibit, and sale. This competition is a timed event that starts promptly at 4:00 p.m. and lasts for 90 minutes.

Artists only have a short time to create and frame one Plein air piece within a designated boundary near the Schaeffer Barn. Artists may use any medium to create their art piece. Artwork must be created only from the surrounding area, and the artists may not use models or references to work from.

This particular kind of event is extremely popular and has taken place nationwide in numerous cities and towns.

Call the Jasper Arts Center to register today.  Plein Air Event is $15, Quick Draw Event is $15, and both are $25. Early registration is encouraged; however, artists may register the day of the event. Free gifts, prizes, music and more!