The Olmsted Plein Air Invitational (OPAI) will return in less than two weeks to bring an incredible array of artists who will paint live at beautiful vistas in Atlanta. This year, in celebration of the 10th anniversary, they are adding to their already extensive week of programming.
This year, “A Day in Roswell” will feature new painting locations at the Chattahoochee River boardwalk, Canton Street, Bulloch and Mimosa Halls. There will be a free artist talk and demo with participating artists Kirk Larsen and Russell Jewell, and the paintings will be showcased at the Roswell Visual Arts Center after completion. OPAI will also offer a full schedule of artist talks and demos throughout the week that will be hosted at their exhibition gallery at September Gray Gallery on Miami Circle.
Some popular events return to this year’s programming, including the Artist Welcome Reception on Tues., April 16, the BIG Petite Reveal on Thurs., April 18, and the Artist Awards and Collector’s Soiree on Sat., April 20.
OPAI Director Phil Cuthbertson shared some insight about how the public can get involved in this year’s event. With daily open hours at the Exhibition Gallery from April 13 through 21, patrons can stop in to view the paintings in person. The gallery walls will change frequently, with new art pieces added daily which will ensure a dynamic gallery experience for visitors.
Special ticketed events, artist talks, demos, and opportunities to observe the artists as they paint are just some of the ways the public can experience this event. There are also volunteer opportunities where folks can participate in various roles and gain experience, knowledge, and a sense of community with the artists.
Speaking of artists, creatives of all experience levels are invited to join the annual PaintQuick event on April 21. Artists are given two hours in which they produce a unique masterpiece. Judges review the works and dole out awards for the winners.
“It is fun and challenging for artists,” said Cuthbertson. “It is a breath of calm and civility for the spectating public. And everyone will truly be amazed at the artwork created.”
While Cuthbertson is not a painter himself, he certainly has gained an appreciation for some of Atlanta’s most beautiful vistas through his experiences with OPAI. The selection of locations for the invitational include landscapes, cityscapes, architectural sites, and more.
“Over the years I have seen amazing paintings of Ponce City Market, the Fox Theater, Swan House, the Smith Farm at the Atlanta History Center, skylines, parks, and more,” continued Cuthbertson. “Do I have a favorite? All I can say is that each brings inspiration.”
In addition to being a fun art experience that encourages artists and patrons alike to engage with and appreciate nature, OPAI is also a great opportunity for those who are interested in collecting artwork to purchase locally-made artworks that celebrate the natural surrounds of our city. The BIG Petite Reveal on April 18, for example, showcases stunning paintings that are smaller than 8×10” and often carry a lower price tag.
“For a beginner [collector], the price points are lower but the work is [just] as spectacular,” said Cuthbertson. While we all cannot afford to own an original Cézanne, Monet or Van Gogh – we can own a painting that follows the traditions of the impressionist, en plein air movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At the same time, we can support living artists who bring a breadth of knowledge and talent to their craft.”
So, whether you’re inspired to participate in this year’s PaintQuick as an artist, if you’d like to see these impressive and talented painters as they paint in the field, or if you’re simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes and locally made artwork, there’s something for everyone at the Olmsted Plein Air Invitational.
“My advice is to come to the Exhibition Gallery and view the paintings,” explained Cuthbertson. “One visit is probably not enough because new fresh paintings are added each day. Find what speaks to you, what elicits an emotional appeal or response. Talk to the artist. Engage in the experience. Most of the artwork I own, I know the story behind the piece [and] have met and talked with the artist. There is a connection. And I enjoy each piece each day.”
The 2024 Olmsted Plein Air Invitational engaged a panel of three judges to consider and select best works in various categories. This year’s judges include Skot Foreman, a gallery owner and collector from San Miguel, Mexico; Larry Moore, master artist and Olmsted alum out of Charleston, SC; and Chris Robinson, Director of Studies Abroad Cortona, Italy at the University of Georgia Lamar Dodd College of Art.
Read the full lineup of events and learn more about Olmsted Plein Air Invitational by visiting their website. The dates of the 2024 festival span from Saturday, April 13 through Sunday, April 21.
