2025 Mountain Maryland Plein Air

The Mountain Maryland Plein Air juried competition and exhibition, now in its 13th year, will be presented and managed by the Allegany Arts Council and the Mountain Maryland Plein Air Committee. Only 30 artists will be invited to participate for awards totaling over $13,000. Located in the Appalachian Mountains, the area features magnificent vistas, pristine state forests, and historic architecture, with attractions including the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, C&O Canal, Casselman Bridge, and the Potomac River.

The entry fee is $40.00 and includes submission of three digital images representing the applicant's plein air body of work. Applicants must include an artist statement. The deadline to enter is February 28, 2025. Selected artists will be required to provide a digital photo and 100 to 200-word bio for promotion of the event. The juror is Stewart White, a watercolorist from Baltimore, Maryland, and signature member of the National Watercolor Society and American Watercolor Society.

The event runs June 9-14, 2025. Artists check in Monday, June 9. A Welcome Event is held Tuesday evening, June 10. Paintings are turned in and installed Friday, June 13, with the Collector's Reception held Friday evening. The Quick Draw takes place Saturday morning, June 14, followed by public exhibition. A 30% commission on artwork sold during the event will be charged. Artwork will be insured for 70% of its retail value during the event. Artists are not permitted to arrange private sales of their work during the event. The sponsoring organization attempts to obtain host housing for artists with local families, though accommodations vary and cannot be guaranteed.