San Angelo, Texas, is now the vibrant canvas for artists from around the world as the EnPleinAirTexas international competition takes center stage. This annual event, hosted by the EnPleinAirTexas organization, is celebrating its 10th year and has already attracted talented artists from various corners of the globe to create breathtaking masterpieces in the great outdoors.
The roots of “en plein air” art, a French term that means “in the open air,” date back to the mid-1800s when Impressionist artists abandoned their studios to capture the beauty of nature on their canvases. Before the advent of the metal paint tube in the 1840s, artists had no means of preserving or transporting their hand-mixed paints, making outdoor painting a practical necessity. Today, the tradition lives on as artists seek to replicate the captivating interplay of light and shadow in natural settings.
EnPleinAirTexas, tracing its origins back to the early 20th century when local artists in Christoval, just south of San Angelo, founded the Texas Artists Camp, has now grown into one of the top five plein air competitions in the United States. Over the past century, it has become a legend in the plein air artist community, drawing world-renowned artists to the scenic landscapes of San Angelo.
This year’s competition commenced on October 19, as competing artists embarked on journeys to private West Texas ranches, where they will paint undisturbed for three days. A welcome party for contestants and event sponsors on October 22 promises a festive gathering of art enthusiasts and creators.
From October 23 to the end of the day on October 25, the entire city of San Angelo becomes a living canvas for these talented artists as they paint their interpretations of the city’s beauty. With the charm of West Texas as their backdrop, they aim to transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art.
Throughout the week, a series of events and locations will provide competitors with opportunities to showcase their artistic prowess. The competition culminates on October 28, where the works of art created during this event will be unveiled for the world to see.
The EnPleinAirTexas competition is not just a showcase of artistic talent but also an event that fosters camaraderie among artists who share a love for painting in the open air. It’s a celebration of creativity and a testament to the enduring allure of plein air painting.
For those eager to follow the competition’s schedule and stay updated on the talented artists participating this year, the official website offers a complete list of events and profiles of the 2023 competition’s artists. San Angelo becomes a vibrant, ever-changing gallery as this international outdoor art competition sweeps into town, and art enthusiasts are in for a visual treat as the artists bring their creative visions to life in the heart of Texas.