Next Sunday, October 12, more than 40 of the country’s top “plein air” (meaning “painting outdoors in natural light”) painters will descend on our lovely town for the Laguna Beach Plein Air Invitational.
I love the Laguna Beach Plein Air.
First, it starts with a bang with all of the artists gathering at the Montage Resort’s grounds, Treasure Island Park, for their first “Quick Draw” 2-hour painting contest. Wander the grounds between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and you will be able to watch these folks at work as they dot the upper lawns and walkways and lower beach areas.
On Monday, it’s a kids’ treat at Heisler Park as elementary through high schoolers are paired with a master plein air painter to create their own works of art. Wednesday, at the same location, our college students at LCAD (Laguna College of Art + Design) will be doing the same.
Throughout the week, though, I love to see our Plein Air pros at work, as they have the opportunity to choose to paint anywhere in Laguna Beach, including its hills and beaches from the Ritz Carlton through Crystal Cove. You’ll see these folks everywhere as you stop in traffic, run in for a coffee, do your usual hikes, or stroll the beach yourself. It’s such a great reminder of what this town was built around in the first place, and each of these painters is happy to discuss their work in progress.
On Saturday, Oct. 19th, the Afternoon Collectors’ Soireé runs from 4 – 8 p.m. at The Ranch. A VIP reception begins from 3 – 4 p.m., with silent and live auctions of the paintings you’ve seen created right in front of your eyes the week prior.
The event closes on Sunday, Oct. 19th with a public viewing and purchase opportunity on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., also at the Ranch.
Mark these days in your calendar as this is truly a rare treat as you witness fantastic works of art coming together right in front of your eyes.