Mathews Plein Air

Calling all Plein Air Artists!

Please join us for the first annual Mathews Plein Air event, hosted by the Bay School Community Arts Center in the beautiful, quaint town of Mathews, Virginia. All levels of artists are welcome and eligible, limited to the first 50 registrants. Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 18 through Saturday, September 20, 2025, and join us for a weekend of fun. The registration deadline is September 11, 2025, if you want your artist participation information shared on our social media platforms. 

Costs: $55.00 per artist (artists attending the Friday Plein Air class at the Bay School, costs: $25.00)

Welcoming Reception and Check-in (canvases stamped)

Location:           Bay School Community Arts Center

                       Thursday, September 18

                       Time:  5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Check-in, bring your canvases to be stamped, meet other artists and enjoy hors d'oeuvres and drinks

(Additional check-ins/canvases stamped Friday, after class for students taking the Plein Air class). 

Painting

Location:           Anywhere in Mathews County, Virginia (suggested areas will be provided)

Dates/Times:     Thursday evening after check-in

                        Friday, all day and evening

                        Saturday, until 3:00 pm

Prepare Paintings

Tasks:              Fill in label for back of painting and attach. Label to include artist's name, painting title, medium, price.

Frame paintings and add wire for hanging.

Time:                Saturday, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Setup for Wet Paint Sale

Location:          Westville Christian Church (next to The Bay School), outside if weather permits

Time:                Saturday, 4:00 pm 

                        Please bring easels for display, you will setup your own artwork display.

Wet Paint Sale and Award Recognition

Location:           Westville Christian Church (next to The Bay School), outside if weather permits

Time:                5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Award Recognition 6:00 pm)

Download the full prospectus and rules here.

For additional information or questions please contact, Pam Doss, Executive Director, Bay School Community Arts Center. 804.725.1278 or [email protected]

For lodging information, view a list of local inns and guest houses here.