Plein Air Adkins

“En plein air” is a French term that means “in the open air” and refers to the practice of painting entire finished artworks out of doors. During Plein Air Adkins, explore the Arboretum’s forest, meadows, and wetland and observe as plein air artists paint original works in the morning.

Plein Air Adkins is open to any artist who wishes to participate. Artists may register in advance or on the day of the event. The artist registration fee is $10.

Following judging at 1 p.m., artists will exhibit and sell their works in the afternoon. The juror is Bernard J. Dellario, a painter and instructor who exhibits widely across the Maryland Eastern Shore and Washington, DC, regions. Dellario studied art at the Art League School in Alexandria, VA, and has attended workshops with several nationally known artists. He has been a member of the Washington Society of Landscape Painters, one of the oldest active artist organizations in the Washington area, since 2003 and currently serves as president.

Fine Times will provide live music during the exhibit and sale. Pete’s PeteZa will sell breakfast and lunch fare starting at 9 a.m., and Blue Monkey Tacos will be on site to sell food beginning at 11 a.m.

Free for members/$5 (includes Arboretum admission) for non-members. Register online here.