Plein Air Plus 2026

The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts presents the eleventh annual "Plein Air Plus" National Juried Competition and Exhibition on Long Beach Island, New Jersey. This unique plein air event features a two-month paint out period from July 1st through August 31st, 2026, allowing approximately 50 selected artists to visit and paint the scenic seashore environment on their own schedule. Artists can choose the time of day, weather, and varied locations to paint, with subject themes including beaches, salt marshes, Barnegat Bay, island towns, water sports, surfing, fishing, boating, and family entertainment venues.

The juror is Peter Trippi, editor-in-chief of Fine Art Connoisseur magazine and president of Projects in 19th-Century Art. Artists must submit up to 6 images of previous work painted in the past two years for consideration, working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, or pastel. The entry fee is $35 for up to 6 entries, with applications due May 10, 2026. Accepted artists will be notified by June 10, 2026.

Finished paintings will be exhibited in the "Island Life" exhibition from September 12 through November 1, 2026. Artists can participate in two categories: "Classical Plein Air" (completed entirely on site without photography) or "Plein Air Plus" (inspired by specific LBI locations with studies painted outdoors and completed in studio). Awards include a Juror's Prize of $500 each for classical plein air and plein air plus categories, plus second prize ($250), third prize ($100), and four honorable mentions. All exhibited artwork must be for sale, with LBIF retaining 40% of retail price.