Plein Air Adkins

Saturday, November 7, 2026 • 10 am–2 pm

Plein Air Adkins is a timed plein air event that takes place on the trails of Adkins Arboretum. Artists paint in the morning and exhibit their work in the afternoon. The artwork will be available for purchase, and prizes will be awarded by guest judge Nancy Tankersley.

The public is invited to explore the Arboretum’s woodland, meadows, and wetland while observing the artists at work, then stay to enjoy the exhibit, sale, and judging. This is a wonderful opportunity to purchase art on the day it was created. There will be food for purchase by Craft Bakery & Cafe. The event is free for spectators.

Plein Air Adkins is open to any artist who wishes to participate. The registration fee for artists is $15 until October 1, then it will increase to $20. Artists may register in advance, or on the day of the event.

During Plein Air Adkins, young artists can try their hand at plein air painting, too. Little Plein Air is free and open to artists aged 3–12. Kids are welcome to bring their own art supplies or borrow from the Arboretum.

En plein air is French for "in the open air."

Artist Registration

Plein Air Adkins

Saturday, November 7, 2026
10 am–2 pm

Little Plein Air

Saturday, November 7, 2026
10:30 am–noon

Event Timeline

8 am: Arboretum gates open
9 am: Artist registration and light refreshments
10 am: Start bell rings
12:30 pm: End bell rings. Artists frame and display their work. Sales and judging begins. Complimentary soup for artists available in the Visitor’s Center.
1 pm: All art must be framed and displayed on the artist’s easel no later than 1 pm to qualify for judging. Artists vote for Artists’ Choice Award
1:30 pm: Winners announced
2 pm: Wrap–up