In The Open Air

In the Open Air honours the practice of creating art outdoors, in the moment.

En plein air is a French expression that translates to “in the open air”. The practice of creating art outdoors goes back for centuries but was popularized by the French Impressionists in the 1800’s. Artists painting in the open air attempt to capture the true effects of light and colour of the landscape at any given moment before the surroundings change with time, distinguishing the process from painting a landscape subject from inside a studio, from memory, imagination or a photograph.

The act of outdoor painting from direct observation continues to be popular, including here in Alberta. This exhibition showcases the work of a number of accomplished Alberta artists, all of whom enjoy creating art en plein air.

Submissions for this juried group exhibition will be accepted until 4 pm on August 16, 2021; this competition is open to Leighton Art Centre members and non-members alike. Find more information and the submission form on our Artist Opportunities & Callouts page.

Featured image: Green Sunlight Priddis, Gerry Mulhall, 2020