Painters from across the state are invited to enjoy the open air painting experience at the 5th Annual Hillsboro Plein Air Competition. Painting sites include historic downtown Hillsboro, the Saturday Farmer's Market and — new this year — the scenic views of the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve.

Painting will start on Friday, July 15 @ 9 am. Painting ends on Saturday, July 16 @ 2:30 pm.

A Figurative Quick Draw event will take place on Saturday, July 16 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on the lawn of the Walters Cultural Arts Center.

A Reception and Awards Ceremony will close the event on July 16 @ 2:30 pm at the Walters Cultural Arts Center. Participants and the public can enjoy music, food, and a wine tasting provided by Hillsboro vintners.

All participating artists are invited to exhibit their completed pieces at the Walters Cultural Arts Center during the month of August, with a First Tuesday reception at the Arts Center on August 2 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. Click Here for more information about the August gallery exhibit.

Click Here for a full Schedule of Events, including Artist Check-in and Registration.

Click Here for Rules, Prizes, and Painting locations.

What is Plein Air?

Plein Air is a term that originates from the French “en plein air” which translates as “in the open.” The technique was made popular by the French and American Impressionist painters of the late 1800s and describes paintings that have been created outdoors instead of in a studio or by photographic references.