Plein Air Plus 2020 National Juried Competition

The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences announces the fifth "Plein Air Plus" Competition and Exhibition. The juror, David C. Levy, will select approximately 35 artists to participate in a Paint Out on Long Beach Island during July and August 2020. The Paint Out runs over a two-month period, allowing artists to visit and paint the scenic seashore environment of Long Beach Island on their own schedule between July 1st and August 31st. Artists can choose the time of day, weather, and varied locations to paint.

Accepted artists will exhibit their paintings created during the Paint Out in the "Island Life" exhibition scheduled for September 12 through November 1, 2020. Artists may submit either classical Plein Air paintings (completed on site without photography) or Plein Air Plus paintings (studio works inspired by locations observed during the Paint Out, using Plein Air sketches and studies). Classical Plein Air painters should submit up to four paintings in a 4' x 4' space. Plein Air Plus artists should submit two classical Plein Air paintings and one Plein Air Plus painting plus studies for a total of four paintings plus studies in the same space. Minimum size for Plus work is 20" x 24". All work must be ready to hang and firmly wired. Submitted work must be available for the duration of the exhibition. The LBIF retains 40% of the retail price of exhibited work.

Eligibility is open to all artists 18 years and older in the continental US. Entry fee is $35.00 for 3 image submissions (non-refundable). Applicants must submit 3 images of previous work painted in the past two years. Painting media can include oil, acrylic, watercolor, and pastel. Images must be JPEG or JPG format, 1200 pixels or greater on the longest side, and under 5 MB. Applicants must include an artist statement and a 1-2 page resume with bio. Accepted artists will be notified by email and posted on the LBIF website by June 29. A reception and awards presentation will be held on September 13, 2-4 pm. Cash awards include First Prize of $500 for both classical Plein Air and Plein Air Plus categories, Second Prize $250, Third Prize $100, and three Honorable Mentions. Artists are not required to attend the reception.