If you see some unusual visitors in the area this weekend, don’t panic: they’re harmless.
Ashcroft is playing host to three dozen artists who are here to paint en plein air, or in the great outdoors, as part of the 10th Plein Air event, hosted by the Winding Rivers Arts & Performance Society. The painting weekend runs from June 6–8, and kicks off with a gourmet appetizer meet-and-greet for the artists on Friday, June 6, but organizer Jessica Clement says that this year the artists have been encouraged to arrive on Thursday, so they can have two full days of painting instead of just one.
Most of the artists come from the Okanagan, the Lower Mainland, and Vancouver Island, and Clement says that more than half of them have been to previous plein air events here, attracted by the vistas and landscapes of the area.
“And they love the hospitality and the food,” she adds. “That’s part of why they come back.”
To paint en plein air, or in the open, is an art movement that began in the 19th century. Artists of the time took advantage of natural light, as well as advances in the type of paint available and the introduction of the box easel, to go outdoors and paint the actual visual conditions in front of them, rather than being confined to a studio.
Plein air painting has remained popular into the 21st century, with events taking place all over the world. The Ashcroft event, which started in 2012, gives artists an opportunity to paint in town — where some of the historic buildings are popular subjects — or in the surrounding countryside. Organizers provide maps and a list of possible locations, but Clement says that many of the artists like to wander and find something they like.
In addition to the meet-and-greet, participants are also treated to dinner on Saturday, lunch on Sunday, and snacks throughout the weekend. Clement notes that this year, in addition to painters, there will be a photographer and a videographer taking part. Glass mosaic artist Marina Papais — responsible for many of the beautiful mosaic creations throughout Ashcroft — will be creating mosaic works en plein air as well.
On Sunday, June 8 the artists will display their work at a wet art show and sale at St. Alban’s church hall in Ashcroft, which starts at 2 p.m. Members of the public are welcome to come meet the artists, view their work, and perhaps take home a unique piece of art.
Clement adds that the art show isn’t the only way to meet the artists, who will be all over town during the weekend. “We hope people stop and say hi to them if you see them. We’re excited to have the artists here again, and want people to come on Sunday and see what they created."
