First Brush of Spring Paint Out

Art collectors, and artists will converge on historic New Harmony, Indiana, April 14 to April 17, 2021 for the 22nd Annual Plein Air Paint Out, known locally as the “First Brush of Spring”.

Each year, the Paint Out attracts more than 150 artists and hundreds of art enthusiasts to this historic southwestern Indiana town, where visitors can enjoy the Paint Out and other activities held in conjunction with the event.

The 22nd Annual New Harmony Paint-out, First Brush of Spring, co-sponsored by the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association (IPAPA) and Hoosier Salon, brings artists together for plein air painting in the historic town of New Harmony, Indiana. The event provides an amazing spectacle for visitors to watch and enjoy artists painting on the streets and in the fields of Posey County. Artists have an opportunity to refine and showcase their talents, inspired by beautiful Spring flowers, interesting architecture, and paint-worthy scenery, plus sell their artwork. Beginning with check-in from 7-9 am Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at the Hoosier Salon Gallery, the nominal cost for artists to participate is described on the signup flyer. (It is $55 for members of IPAPA or Hoosier Salon; $75 for non-members; $20 for full-time college students).

Field to Finish takes place Wednesday, is an exhibit in the Hoosier Salon gallery. On Thursday, the “Quick Draw” competition is held. Artists sign in, get their canvases stamped and set-up to paint between 3:00 and 3:30, bringing their completed painting back for judging by 5:00 p.m. Nothing is more fun than golf carting around town to spot the artists creating their work, starting with the first brush, then seeing the finished product a short time later.

On Friday, artists will be painting all day. Saturday the show and sale will be held.