2026 Redstone Plein Air Festival

The Redstone Plein Air invites painters to capture the dramatic landscapes, historic architecture, and sweeping mountain views of the Crystal River Valley. Nestled at the base of towering peaks, Redstone is a small mountain town known for its historic buildings, river corridors, quiet streets, and timeless character. Hosted by the family-run Redstone Gallery, this juried plein air event is rooted in the mission of the Redstone Art Foundation: to promote and encourage the arts in the Crystal Valley. The event is intentionally small but growing, offering artists a true small-town experience with exceptional support from an art-loving community. Unique painting opportunities at private properties within the valley will be available to artists throughout the week.

This event welcomes artists working from life in all painting media. Artist registration takes place Monday, June 22, 2026 from 8am. Artists may paint throughout the week and have until Friday at noon to complete work for award judging and the opening reception Friday evening from 5–8pm. The exhibition and sale will be held Saturday and Sunday from 10am–6pm both days, featuring live music, artist demonstrations, food and refreshments. A Quick Draw competition will take place Thursday, June 25 in Redstone's historic district. The event judge is Denver-based artist Anna Rose Bain, a Signature Member of the Oil Painters of America and Signature Faculty Member of the Portrait Society of America. Anna will give a demonstration at the Redstone Gallery on Saturday 6/27.

Awards totaling $2,000 will be presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place and the Quick Draw competition. Participating artists will be invited to an artist dinner during the week. Host accommodation may be available on a first-come, first-served basis for out-of-area artists, with discounted lodging also available. Sales commission is 60% to the artist and 40% to Redstone Art Gallery. A non-refundable $25 application fee is required. Accepted artists will pay a registration fee of $75 upon acceptance. This plein air competition is open to all plein air artists working in all painting and drawing media including watercolor, acrylic, oil, gouache, casein and pastel. National and international artists are invited to apply; travel expenses must be covered by the artist.