As the movement grows, it certainly could be as evidenced by the Wisconsin State Fair, which added this event in 2017.
State Fairs have so many attractions. Whether it’s the animals, rides, games, performances, friend food, or markets, there’s generally something for everyone at these mass local gatherings. While plein air painters have surely been attracted to these locations for painting for years, some might have new incentive if the Wisconsin State Fair is any indication.
In 2017, the state fair recently sponsored its own plein air competition, drawing 30 artists of all skill levels to the grounds. Artists were welcome to paint on the fairgrounds on August 7 and August 8 between 7 A.M. and 11 A.M. with a registration fee of $35 and stamped canvases. The Grand Prize is worth a whopping $1000 while $600 and $400 are reserved for Second and Third Places, respectively. There will also be $200 awarded for Best Fair Happiness, Landscape, Streetscape, Nature, and Dairy Animal.
Scott Hefti took home the Grand Prize at the fair in 2017, followed by Thomas Buchs as Reserve Champion. Les Leffingwell received an Award of Merit and Kristin Gjerdset was the winner of Best Fair Happiness. Judith Reidy took home Best Fair Landmark and Jenny Anderson won Best Fair Streetscape. The Best Nature at the Fair was won by Cherie Raffel and Wendie Thompson won Best Dairy Animal. The Tiny Treasures Grand Champion award went to Jenny Anderson and the Tiny Treasures Reserve Champion was earned by Troy Tatlock. Finally, the Tiny Treasures Award of Merit was given to Ariana Huggett.
To learn more, visit the Journal Sentinel.
This article was featured in PleinAir Today, a weekly e-newsletter from PleinAir magazine. To start receiving PleinAir Today for free, click here.
