The Hamilton Plein Air Festival is an open competition for artists who love to create art outdoors. We welcome en plein air competitors and visitors from across North America to paint the views of Hamilton Ontario. Our unique city is nestled along the Niagara Escarpment. This unique land formation in Ontario stretches almost 900 km from the Niagara River to Tobermory and Manitoulin Island. It rises up in places more than half a kilometre above sea level. The entire Escarpment extends from western New York across southern Ontario to the Bruce Peninsula, under the waters of Georgian Bay to Manitoulin Island, and south along the western shore of Lake Michigan. The most spectacular sections – those recognized by UNESCO in the Biosphere designation – are covered by the Niagara Escarpment Plan (from Niagara Region to Bruce County).
In addition to the exciting nature views Hamilton also features a gritty city ambiance coveted by the film industry for its urban charm and historic buildings. And if that’s not enough to entice the plein air painter, our city also hosts several active ports and harbors along the shores of Lake Ontario. There’s something for every plein air painter in our rustic city.
Our 4 day festival begins on Thursday June 4th when competitors will register in person with their painting supports. The final day, June 9th is the awards ceremony followed by a public show and sale of works painted during the festival.
We have invited respected arts professionals to judge the submitted works.
Works can be entered into one of 3 categories: Nocturne, Escarpment and City Street-views. Each of these categories has its own award. All submitted pieces are eligible for the Grand Prize award. Each registered artist can submit up to a total of 2 finished pieces, all submitted pieces are eligible for the Grand Prize award.
Artists will receive a participant package including your event t-shirt and additional area information at check-in.
For more information, please visit www.hamontpleinair.com or contact Hamilton Ontario Plein Air Artists
Applications are accepted March 17th to May 5th, 2024. No exceptions.
Max number of competitors this year is 100. Register early to avoid disappointment.
DOWNLOAD THE RULES AND REGISTRATION FORM AT
www.hamontpleinair.com
