2026 Floyd Plein Air Biennial

The 2026 Floyd Plein Air Biennial invites artists to paint plein air in Floyd County, Virginia, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, Buffalo Mountain, local farms, scenic vistas, and the Town of Floyd. The event features artist demonstrations, collector educational talks, a Juried Artist Collector Preview Exhibition, Artist/Patron Welcome Reception with Wet Paint Sale, Artist/Patron Cocktail Party, Quick Draw Contest at the Historic Floyd Country Store & Friday Night Jamboree, Gala Reception, and Art Sale. The top cash prize is $1,500, with additional cash prizes for "Best of" themes and manufacturer awards. Approximately 20-25 juried artists will be selected. Quick Draw will also allow non-juried artist participation competing for a separate award.

Juried artists will be asked to paint a small work (8x10 and under) to be sold for less than $250, with full proceeds benefiting the Center's educational programs. The 2026 event judge is nationally known plein air painter Deliece Blanchard, a prize-winning member of the Oil Painters of America, the American Impressionist Society, and the American Women Artists. Plein air painter and Virginia native Joli Ayn Wood returns as Chairperson.

All 2D artist media and substrates are accepted, including watercolor, acrylics, oil, gouache, and mixed media. The non-refundable entry fee is $60. Submit five (5) digital images representing your skill level and unique artistic voice. Video entries cannot be accepted. The Center will make every effort to offer free host housing to participating artists on a first come basis, with approval notifications provided no later than 60 days prior to the event. Open to all artists 18 years of age or older. Contact the Center at 1-540-745-2784 for additional questions.