The early bird deadline for artists to register for “Plein Air in the Parks,” a collaborative weekend event presented by Wyoming State Parks, the Wyoming Arts Council and the Lander Art Center, is Aug. 15.
Taking place this September at Sinks Canyon State Park, this painting competition pairs talented artists with beautiful locations, and offers cash prizes to top participants.
Taking place Sept. 20 – 23, participants will first stamp their canvases at Lander Art Center (224 E. Main St.) or Sinks Canyon State Park Visitor Center (3079 Sinks Canyon Road). From there artists can look forward to a weekend of outdoor, on location, plein air painting in Sinks Canyon State Park. At least 75% of entered works must be produced outdoors and within the bounds of the park.
“For many years the Wyoming Arts Council worked with State Parks on various ‘arts in the parks’ programs,” says Rachel Clifton, Assistant Director of the Wyoming Arts Council. “Plein Air in the Parks is a return to form. Wyoming boasts some of the most beautiful places in the world, and countless talented artists. Putting them together just makes sense.”
The competition will be judged anonymously by a panel comprised those with an arts background, representatives from the community, and individuals familiar with Sinks Canyon State Park. The Best in Show Cash Award will be $1,000, while 2nd and 3rd place prizes go for $500 and $250 respectively.
The public is invited to attend a reception on Sunday, Sept. 23 and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, a $250 cash award and purchase artwork produced during the event Prizes for youth categories include a cash award and gift cards to the Lander Art Center. Artists will also have the option of selling pieces produced at the event during the reception.
For full rules and regulations, visit the Arts Council website athttps://wyoarts.state.wy.us/wac-program/plein-air/.
For more information, contact Rachel Clifton, Wyoming Arts Council, at 307-777-5305 or[email protected] or Mabel Jones, Wyoming State Parks, at 307-777-6968 or[email protected].