[singlepic id=470 w=320 h=240 mode=watermark float=right]I imagine the kids painting their first Laguna Beach Plein Air event on Monday felt some level of stress. After all, it was the first time the Laguna Art Museum had asked kids to participate in their own “Paint Out” contest in the famous Laguna Beach Plein Air Invitational. And, of course, every news station in L.A. was there.

But when you’re a college kid actually attending the LCAD (Laguna College of Art & Design) and you’re asked to be in the Plein Air event, that’s a whole different kind of stress level!

These brave up-and-comers will be strutting their stuff at Wednesday’s newest addition to Laguna Beach’s famous Plein Air Week – the LCAD Paint Out at Heisler Park. Twenty student artists will be setting up easels, paints, and the ever-present paper towel rolls for another phenomenal session of live painting from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Their paintings will also be added to the ongoing Silent Auction, which continues to gain more wall space at the Laguna Art Museum, thanks to our busy pros and kids. You’re welcome to stroll into the Museum anytime between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to begin earmarking your favorites.

On Thursday, Oct. 13th, the FINAL Paint Out occurs for our country’s top Plein Air pros. This takes place at the charming Crystal Cove from 8 a.m. to noon.  Watch more than 50 artists complete additional works of art while strolling one of the most beautiful beachside state parks in California.

Without a state park pass, parking at Reef Point, Pelican Point or Los Trancos across the highway is $15. (I think you can also park at the new lots at El Moro and trot under the highway via tunnel, too.) If you find yourself at Los Trancos, mosey your way to the cool underground tunnel, or wait for shuttles to swing through.

Believe me, the talent is so huge at this year’s Laguna Art Museum Plein Air, and Crystal Cove is such a perfect location for landscape painters that the $15 will be well worth the investment.

Then, one last schedule item to add to Thursday’s Plein Air Invitational … yes there’s more the remaining days of the week, but I’m just going to take you through Thursday here … Various galleries in Laguna Beach will be featuring these renowned Plein Air artists on a special “Art Walk” this Thursday Night. Also free to the public, the gallery open houses are 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

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