Laguna Beach’s long-storied history as a paradise for plein air painters dates back more than a century when artists began flocking to the area to capture the stunning light of coastal California. That legacy lives on today with the support of organizations like Laguna Plein Air Painting Association (LPAPA) and events like their 25th Annual Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational. From October 7 through October 15, nearly 40 award-winning artists from around the country will turn Laguna Beach into an outdoor painting studio in a celebration of the area’s timeless beauty.
David Marty, Laguna Lights, oil, 16 x 20". Photo courtesy LPAPA.
During the nine-day invitational, the artists will collectively create 300-plus plein air works in their chosen medium that will premiere at the Collector’s Gala at the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach grounds at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 14. During the ticketed gala, works will be judged for awards and available for purchase. The Invitational Art Show opens to the public the following day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A post-invitational showcase will be on view October 16 through October 30 at the LPAPA Gallery in the heart of Laguna Beach.
The invitational also features daily events and activities, as well as opportunities for the public to meet the artists and watch them work, beginning with the annual Quick Draw Painting Competition on October 8, at Heisler Park. There are also youth activities, panel discussions and an after-dark plein air outing during which artists will create nocturnes.
Patrons browse artwork at the 2022 Collectors Gala Showcase. Photo courtesy LPAPA.
“We are so excited that we have been able to present the best of the best for all these invitationals,” says LPAPA executive advisor, Rosemary Swimm. “Our mission is to continue to build upon and promote the renowned landscape painting heritage of Laguna Beach. LPAPA serves its members regionally, nationally and internationally through events, programs and education, and enhances the visibility and livelihoods of its artists through the prestigious Plein Air Invitational and other year-round gallery and exhibition opportunities and programs.”
To view the 2023 artist roster and a detailed schedule of events, and for tickets to the Collectors Gala, visit: lpapa.org/laguna-plein-air-invitational. —
25th Annual Laguna Plein Air Painting Invitational
October 7-15, 2023
Laguna Beach, CA
(949) 376-3635
lpapa.org
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