11th Annual Cedarburg Plein Air Painting Event June 16-26, 2011

More than 150 artists from across the Midwest will be painting charming and historic Cedarburg from June 16 – 26. The French phrase “en plein air” literally means ‘in the open air,’ where artists venture out of their studios to investigate and capture the effects of light on various subjects. You’ll see the artists with easels lining the streets and out in the scenic countryside creating award-winning pieces of art.

Silent Auction and Public Sale of art begins Friday, June 24, noon - 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, June 25,10 a.m. – 6:00. Open to public and free. Artist’s Reception and Award Presentation begins at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, with the silent auction ending at 6 p.m. Artists will compete for more than $7,000 in cash prizes during the event. Sales gallery is located at the Cedarburg Cultural Center on Washington Ave. in downtown Cedarburg.

Here’s a snapshot of key events:

Wednesday, June 15: New this year, artists will have a paint-out at scenic Riveredge Nature Center in Newburg. Come watch over 50 artists paint in this beautiful natural environment from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Paintings will be on display at Riveredge beginning Wednesday, then moved to the Cultural Center in Cedarburg for sale and display on June 24, 25 & 26.

Thursday, June 16: Thursday, June 23: Registration for artists begins daily in front of the Cedarburg Cultural Center (from 8 – 10 a.m.). Watch artists all week painting the historic streets and buildings of Cedarburg or drive around the surrounding countryside to spot your favorite painter.

Saturday, June 18: It’s the Quick Paint event! Artists have 2 1⁄2 hours to get inspired, paint and frame a painting! Because of the timeframe, most artists choose to stay in the downtown area. It’s chaotic and fun!

Tuesday, June 21: Wisconsin Plein Air Painter Bonnita Budysz will demonstrate her award-winning painting techniques at an artist’s picnic in front of City Hall from 11:30 – 2:30. The demo is free to the public, but bring your own lunch (lunch is provided for artists only).

Thursday, June 23: Artists submit their two best paintings from the week to enter in the competition from 1-3 p.m. at the Cedarburg Cultural Center. Jurors select award winning paintings on Friday morning amounting to more than $7,000 in cash prizes!

Friday, June 24: Be the first to see the exhibit and place your silent auction bid from noon – 5:00 p.m. at the Cedarburg Cultural Center.

Saturday, June 25: Artists immerse themselves in the heart of Strawberry Fest for the “Paint the Festival” event. Get your strawberry wine, strawberry shortcake or strawberry smoothie and walk the festival to find your favorite artist!

Saturday, June 25: Exhibit and silent auction of art begins at 10 a.m. at the Cedarburg Cultural Center. The Artist’s Reception and Awards Presentation begins at 4:30 p.m. This is a free and fun event and your chance to MEET THE ARTISTS IN PERSON! The silent auction closes at 6 p.m., so don’t miss the chance to bid on your favorite painting!

Sunday, June 26: Gallery sales continue from 8 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Artists pick up paintings from 3:30 -4:30.