PIKE ROAD, AL – Artists from across the River Region and beyond will bring easels and fresh perspectives to Pike Road Oct. 7-11 for the 15th Annual Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out. The five-day event invites experienced painters, beginners and community members to celebrate art in the outdoors.
Plein air is French for “outdoors.” The fast-paced style challenges artists to paint landscapes and local scenes on location as the natural light and colors change around them.
This year’s theme, “The American Landscape,” will encourage participating artists to capture Pike Road’s rural charm and the familiar places and community characteristics that make the town feel like home.
Local artist Barbara Davis helped introduce the idea for a Pike Road paint out while serving on the Pike Road Arts Council alongside Patty Payne and Glenda Adams. At the time, Davis and other members of Alabama Plein Air Artists were already traveling to paint together in communities across the state.
“It’s those formative days of being at the Arts Council table in Town Hall and just throwing ideas back and forth,” Davis said. “It’s amazing how it grew.”
What began as an idea around that table has developed into a multiday event that brings artists and residents together through painting, workshops and other activities. Davis said plein air painting has also grown far beyond Pike Road.
“It’s a phenomenon, really,” she said. “It’s across the country, really across the world. But America really has embraced it, and there are events all over the country that you can go to.”
While the Paint Out draws experienced artists, Davis said newcomers should not let a blank canvas or unfamiliar equipment keep them from participating.
“Just keep your supplies simple. Don’t get overwhelmed by all the supplies,” Davis said. “Find a buddy and go with them.”
Participants also do not have to limit themselves to painting. A sketchbook, pencils or another familiar medium can provide an easy way to take part, and workshops give new artists an opportunity to learn before heading out on their own.
The event has grown into more than a chance to create art. Davis said Pike Road residents have opened their properties to participating artists and formed friendships through the experience.
“It’s so exciting,” she said. “In 15 years, to see what Patty Payne and her crew have made this event into — an educational experience, an experience that involves the entire community. We have people who open up their homes, their property, for us to come and paint. We’ve made friends with all of these people.”
Throughout the event, artists will work at locations around Pike Road. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stop, say hello, watch the creative process and share the town’s “Welcome Home” hospitality. The event also includes workshops, a show and sale, an auction and Blended Brushes activities.
The 15th Annual Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out is scheduled for Oct. 7-11, with activities listed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artist registration and the detailed event timeline are available through the Town of Pike Road. Questions may be directed to Pike Road Arts Council Coordinator Patty Payne at patty@pikeroad.us.
Click HERE for complete event information and artist registration.