– Bob Bahr reporting, Editor PleinAir Today –

Coastal Massachusetts, one of the most inspiring places in America to paint, now has another plein air event. Submissions are now being accepted.

Lead Image: One of George Van Hook’s paintings of the Cape Ann area

The event is called Cape Ann Plein Air, and about 40 artists will be accepted. Centered in the Rockport area, the competition boasts $16,000 in award money. It will be held from October 10-16.

Although this is its first year, the event is launching as a full-blown experience, with a Third Place cash award that is bigger than most events’ First Place award: $2,000. The artist who earns First Place at Cape Ann Plein Air will take home $6,000! Second Place is worth $4,000. That purse is guaranteed to attract top artists, even if the Massachusetts landscape somehow doesn’t.

Several activities highlight the event, including paint-outs in Manchester-by-the-Sea, a paint-out in Essex, an opening reception for artists on October 10, and an awards gala on October 15.

“Cape Ann Plein Air has already begun to attract the attention of artists and art lovers from other parts of the United States, but just as important are the opportunities this competition and festival will create for our local artists,” says Rocky Neck Art Colony President Karen Ristuben, who will manage the effort.

“We set out to create an event that will spotlight Cape Ann’s unique arts and cultural heritage, and together with other organizers, we are taking steps to make certain that the entire community — particularly our local artists —benefits,” says James Caviston, president of seARTS, an organization that supports the region’s art and cultural community.

The deadline to enter is August 15. For more information, click here.


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