10th Annual Paint Great Falls: Plein Air Competition 

Join us to capture the spring colors and gorgeous scenery in Great Falls, Virginia -- less than 45 minutes away from Washington, DC but a world away, with rolling hills, tree-lined country roads, horse properties, and historic buildings.  Paint the waterfall in Great Falls National Park on the Potomac River, historic Colvin Run Mill, charming Great Falls Village Centre, exquisite private gardens and historic farms.  A list of suggested painting locations will be provided and the community is invited to watch artists paint throughout the event. Weeklong event includes a Quick Draw and culminates with an Award Ceremony Art Show & Sale.  This is a non-juried, open event and we encourage artists of all levels to participate.  Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st-3rd place, Best Emerging Artist and Honorable Mention.  We are honored to have renowned Plein Air artist, Bethanne Kinsella Cople, judge entries again this year. Artist participation is limited to 35 artists, so we encourage anyone interested to register early.  

Schedule of Events & Important Details

Each artist will receive an artist kit upon check in on Sat May 18 including a list of recommended locations, easel sign, and invitations to the Art Show & Sale on Sat May 25.  Canvas stamping is available each morning from Sat May 18 to Fri May 24 from 9-10:30am.  List of recommended painting locations, includes several private gardens and all locations are expecting artists.  Participants are encouraged to let us know where they plan to paint each day so their location can be shared on social media.  3 canvas stamps are included with registration and additional stamps are available for $5/each.

Optional Events 

A Quick Paint competition on Fri May 24 from 4:00-7:30pm is a separate event open to all artists. Registration in Paint Great Falls is not required.  Prizes will be awarded for Quick Paint artwork, but these painting are not eligible for the Paint Great Falls exhibit.  Artists must register in advance through our website.