Into Nature Plein Air Competition & Exhibition

This summer, WBCA is inviting you to get outside and explore the world of outdoor painting during the Into Nature Plein Air Competition.

En plein air, French for “in open air,” is a style of painting in which painters step outside of their studio walls and into nature. Plein air paintings are often done quickly, given the ever-changing nature of the natural world with light and shadows that morph in an instant. Being immersed in nature and capturing these fleeting moments is what draws so many artists to the practice of plein air.

Artists 17+ of all skill levels are welcome to participate in the competition. Find information on the competition and exhibition dates below.

Registration is now closed. Call for entry dates is Monday, May 6-Friday, July 19, 2024

For our youth plein air exhibition, check out Into Nature Jr. 

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2024 Competition Dates

Saturday, July 27-Thursday, August 8, 2024

Paint "en plein air" throughout White Bear Lake and surrounding areas during this time frame. Find a list of suggested locations to paint below.

Into Nature Community Reception and Award Ceremony:

August 15, 2024, 6:30-8:30 PM
Award Ceremony at 7:00 PM

Join us in celebrating the plein air artwork created during the contest dates. There will be an award ceremony with words from this year's judge Michele Combs.

Into Nature Kick-Off Celebration

Saturday, July 27, 1:00-3:00 PM

Come celebrate nature on WBCA’s beautiful campus! The kick-off extravaganza will begin with readings from the Outdoor Writers League. There will be dancing demos celebrating nature in which all are welcome to participate. Watch plein air painters do “quick paints” and make your own landscape drawing using pastels. Easels will be available to paint or draw throughout the festivities (please bring your own art materials). Stay tuned for a full schedule.

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Into Nature Showcase

In the Ford Family Gallery August 15-21, 2024

All submissions will be on display in the Ford Family Gallery during this week.

Into Nature Plein Air Exhibition

Selected Work and Award Winners

In the Exhibition Hall September 3-27, 2024

2023 Award Winners