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.”
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
