Watch Artists at Work

On September 12 and 13, 2008, Chincoteague Cultural Alliance will sponsor the Fifth Annual Plein Air Art Event.  Plein Air is a French term that means painting in the open.  That is what more than 40 professional artists will do for two days throughout Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.  The Plein Air Art Event culminates on Saturday evening, September 13 with a 6 – 10 pm reception, exhibit and sale of the artists’ work at Comfort Suites on Main Street in Chincoteague.

Artists choose distinctive locations throughout the Islands and make use of their unique styles in pursuit of the common goal of capturing scenes as quickly as possible before the movements of sun and clouds alter the lighting and colors of the view.  The press of time and changing light make plein air work energetic and exciting.

Visitors are encouraged to watch the artists at work.  Some artists are willing to talk about their work while they are painting.  Others may be so engaged with their work that they are unaware of any onlookers.