For only two weeks, starting last Monday, there will be sightings of the elusive, often solitary, plein air painter throughout the Yardley, Newtown, Washington Crossing and Langhorne areas.
They are readily identifiable as they will be accompanied with a classic easel and multi-colored paints (often on their clothes), floppy hat and comfortable shoes. This rare creature may appear in all types of weather.
Often welcoming to strangers, it is best to approach with caution so as not to disturb their focus. Feel free to offer food and water as they can be found to be outdoors for hours.
Should you see a plein air painter, the public is encouraged to stop, take a photo and post it with #AOYPleinAir2022 and #VisitBucksCounty.
Some 65 plein air painters have arrived in Bucks County for the second annual “Paint Our Towns Plein Air Open” hosted by AOY Art Center, celebrating the historic towns in the area.
“Last year’s Plein Air Open was a huge success. People enjoyed the unique perspectives and original works of places familiar to us all,” said Bette Sovinee, AOY Art Center coordinator
The artists will have two weeks to paint and will submit only two pieces to the exhibition for the consideration of the juror. First prize is $500. Donations from local merchants will add to the awards packages.
This year the selection of awards will be made by nationally-recognized and award-winning plein air artist Neal Hughes from Medford, N.J.
He is a Fellow of the American Society of Marine Artists, a signature member of Oil Painters of America and the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society, a member of the Salmagundi Club, American Impressionist Society and the Mid Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association. His work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, Southwest Art, American Artist and American Art Collector magazines.
The Plein Air Open Exhibition will be open to the public Saturday, May 28 through Sunday, June 12 at AOY Art Center, 949 Mirror Lake Road, Yardley. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The exhibition can also be viewed online at aoyarts.org starting May 28.
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