In French, “plein air” means “open air” or “outside.” In art terms, “plein air” means “painting outdoors.” The annual Kansas City Plein Air Festival returns May 4-12, 2018, to Penn Valley Park and Union Cemetery. Admission is FREE.
Plein Air artists from around the country will be capturing the beauty of Kansas City with their paintbrushes, while competing for cash prizes. The public is invited to watch portions the event and the awards ceremony.
Event Dates & Times
There will be three quick paint competitions that will be open to the public:
May 6, 2018 (5 to 7 p.m.): Quick Paint Competition #1 – Roanoke Park
Artists will have two hours to find a unique view of Roanoke Park. Immediately following the painting session, Plein Air KC judge, Patrick Saunders, will announce the winner and award $500 to the artist. The public is welcome to watch this event and the judging ceremony at the end, but please be considerate of the artists and don’t disturb their focus. Live music and food trucks will be available for a family-friendly day in the park.
May 8, 2018 (time TBD): Quick Paint Competition #2 – Penn Valley Park
Artists will have two hours to find a unique view of the Penn Valley Park lake. Immediately following the painting session, 2018 judge, Patrick Saunders, will announce the winner and award $500 to the artist. The public is welcome to watch this event and the judging ceremony at the end, but please be considerate of the artists and not disturb their focus.
May 10 (6 to 8 p.m.): Quick Paint Competition #3 – Union Cemetery
Artists will have two hours to paint a historical, unique view of Union Cemetery. Patrons are invited to join the party with live music by Jazz For Good, food from local food trucks, SSaaCC Lunch and Pita For Good. Immediately following the painting session, judge, Patrick Saunders will announce the winner and award $500 to the artist.
The Awards Ceremony & Art Auction will be held on May 12, 2018, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Buttonwood Art Space. All of the hundreds of pieces of artwork created during the festival will be sold. This is a special chance to meet the talented artists, celebrate their work, and enjoy an evening of food and adult drinks with the Penn Valley Park Conservancy.
