Annual Plein Air Paint Out takes place at BAYarts

Community NewsBAYarts is hosting their annual Plein Air Paint Out. October 2 - 4 you will witness or even participate in the spontaneous spirit of creating art outdoors.Courtesy of BAYartsBy Kathleen Barnard, special to cleveland.comBAY VILLAGE, Oh. - Dip your toes into the art of making art outdoors. BAYarts is welcoming the community as well as regional artists to join the annual ‘Plein Air Paint Out’ on October 2nd-4th. Plein Air artists throughout the region will come together in Bay Village to participate in the ‘Artistic By Nature Plein Air Paint Out’ event which celebrates the beauty that surrounds us. Considering the inspiring backdrop that our community has (Lake Erie) this region is ideal. But how can you take part if you aren’t familiar with what Plein Air is? Plein Air is essentially painting outside, and painting the outdoors. Think landscapes, vast skies and bodies of water, but don’t feel limited.Styles may range from realism to abstract, but all artwork must be completed in true plein air style, without the use of off-site work or reference photos.Once the works of art are created, artists may submit up to two original, two-dimensional works created on-site during the event, into a juried contest. All artists who participate will have their work displayed during the closing reception, and available for public viewing and purchase in the Sally J. Otto Gallery, with select artwork remaining on view through November 7, 2026. This year’s judge will be Nicole Maye Luga, Awards include $500 for Best of Show, along with prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place, Nocturne (night scene) Paint, and Quick Paint. Awards will be presented during the Artist Reception on Sunday, October 4, from 2–4 p.m.The event is open to any artist 18 years of age and older. Hopeful participants should download the registration form below, fill it out, and submit in-person or call BAYarts at 440-871-6543.Visit www.bayarts.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/BAYarts-Plein-Air-REGISTRATION.pdf for the registration link. This event is located on the BAYarts campus at 28795 Lake Road, and the surrounding Huntington Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks.For more information visit www.bayarts.net and look under events tab.