Plein air painter Lewis Williams recently visited the International Ice Climbing Festival in Ouray, Colorado – not to climb ice, but to set up his canvas and paint the incredible scene before him in what he calls “big-time frozen fun.”
“This year’s event ran January 19-22, and it is a grand spectator sport,” Lewis said. “Action, drama, colors, and ice abound! After discussing my idea of plein air painting at the event this year, a friend very enthusiastically encouraged it, so I dived in.
“One must go prepared for the weather but the unique enjoyment factor hugely outweighs any challenges – the frozen ‘falling’ water in that setting alone fills the mind with wonder. Add in climbers, ice axes, ropes, snow, and a deep box canyon and it is a delight. Friendly folks everywhere you turn.”
![The International Ice Climbing Festival](https://www.outdoorpainter.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/plein-air-painting-ice-Lewis-Williams-icepark3.jpg)
He added that the festival is annual so you can visit next year, but “climbers are often plentiful all winter, and climbing and painting is always free!”
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Also in Extreme Plein Air:
In 2019, Lewis Williams began plein air painting his way from California to Maine – by bicycle. Here, he gives us an update on his journey, including the biggest bonus, which came unexpectedly. Read about it in this update at OutdoorPainter.com.
Connect with Lewis Williams:Â lewisartwilliams.com
And browse more free articles here at OutdoorPainter.com