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17th Annual Plein Air: Artists Paint Red Wing


  • Red Wing Arts 418 Levee Street Red Wing, MN 55066 United States (map)

Join Red Wing Arts in celebrating its 17th anniversary of the Plein Air, the only outdoor painting festival in Southern Minnesota, from June 10-24, 2023. The event takes art out of the gallery and onto the streets, parks, and riverbanks, providing a unique opportunity for passersby to admire the artists at work and watch them capture the beauty of Red Wing's scenery in real-time.

Between June 10-22, Red Wing Arts will host several public Plein Air events, providing opportunities to connect with the artists while they create in our community. The festival offers a rare opportunity to view 32 renowned artists β€œin action” and to purchase original scenic artwork of the area. The participating artists will complete up to three paintings, which will then be judged by nationally recognized Plein Air Artist, Kathie Wheeler, for $5,000 in cash prizes and exhibited at the Depot Gallery beginning Saturday, June 23rd.

After the artists have turned in their artwork, they are invited to participate in a β€œQuick Paint” event from 9-11 am on Saturday June 24th at the Depot Gallery, followed by a community celebration and artist reception from 1-3 pm. Over 100 judged works will be hung and available for purchase in the Red Wing Arts Depot Gallery from June 24-August 20.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty of Red Wing through the eyes of some of the nation's most talented artists! Be sure to purchase original scenic artwork of the area from the culminating exhibit and live painting events!

Paint-Out at Vino in the Valley

🎨 Who: Artists and art enthusiasts

πŸ“… When: Sunday, June 11, 11 am - 3 pm

πŸ“ Where: W3826 450th Ave, Maiden Rock, WI 54750

πŸ”Ž Why: Immerse yourself in the beautiful outdoor setting nestled in the heart of the Rush River Valley while regional artists capture the essence of the stunning surroundings. Witness the artistic process, stroll through the property, enjoy a beverage or meal, and be inspired by the scenic views. All skill levels welcome!

πŸ’‘ How: Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the Plein Air painting experience! Join us at Vino in the Valley and unleash your creativity.

β€œPicnic with the Painters”

at Frontenac State Park

🎨 Who: Nature and art enthusiasts

πŸ“… When: Tuesday, June 13, 5 pm - 9 pm

πŸ“ Where: Old Frontenac Overlook, Frontenac State Park

πŸ”Ž Why: Enjoy an enchanting evening as artists paint the iconic scenery of Frontenac State Park. Pack your picnic, bring your loved ones, and witness the artistic process amidst the beauty of the park. Explore the trails, relax by the water, and indulge in the artistic ambiance.

πŸ’‘ How: Experience art in the park like never before! Join us for a memorable β€œPicnic with the Painters” at Frontenac State Park. MN State Park vehicle permit required.

Red Wing Trolley Tour

🎨 Who: Art enthusiasts and curious explorers

πŸ“… When: Friday, June 16, 2-5 pm

πŸ“ Where: Three idyllic locations in Red Wing & Welch

πŸ”Ž Why: Discover the beauty of our region through an artist's eye. Embark on a guided Trolley Tour of Red Wing's most picturesque locations and witness Plein Air artists capturing the essence of each spot. Immerse yourself in the artistic journey, learn about the techniques, and gain insights into the creative process. Beverages and nibbles at each stop.

πŸ’‘ How: Reserve your spot and hop on board the Red Wing Trolley and be part of this unique artistic adventure! Reserve your spot and learn more about the tour stops

Nocturne Paint-Out

🎨 Who: Night owls and art enthusiasts

πŸ“… When: Tuesday, June 20, 7-10 pm πŸ“ Where: Upper Quarry, Memorial Park, Red Wing

πŸ”Ž Why: Experience the enchantment of painters capturing the evening light during this popular Nocturne Paint-Out event. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and be captivated by the unique atmosphere of this special paint-out.

πŸ’‘ How: Join us for an extraordinary artistic experience at Upper Quarry, Memorial Park.

β€œDowntown Day”

🎨 Who: Art enthusiasts and community members

πŸ“… When: Wednesday, June 21, All Day

πŸ“ Where: Downtown Red Wing

πŸ”Ž Why: Witness the vibrant transformation of downtown Red Wing as artists take to the streets, capturing the essence of the city through their art. Experience the live creation of artwork, interact with the artists, and immerse yourself in the artistic energy of the community. Explore local shops, restaurants, and galleries while enjoying the creative atmosphere. The event culminates with painters at Red Wing Arts Concerts in The Park til 9 pm.

πŸ’‘ How: Don't miss the artistic spectacle of Downtown Day! Mark your calendars and join us in downtown Red Wing for a day filled with art, creativity, and community.

Quick Paint & Free Kids Paint

🎨 Who: Art enthusiasts and community members

πŸ“… When: Saturday, June 24, 9-11 am

πŸ“ Where: Red Wing Arts Depot

πŸ”Ž Why: Watch artists complete a painting from start to finish during the fast-paced event in and around the Depot, Farmers Market and Levee Park, capturing the essence of the bustle and light in their artwork Experience the live creation of artwork, interact with the artists, and immerse yourself in the artistic energy of the community.

πŸ’‘ How: Don't miss the artistic spectacle of Downtown Day! Mark your calendars and join us in downtown Red Wing for a day filled with art, creativity, and community.

Free Kids Paint-Out

🎨 Who: Young Artists & Families

πŸ“… When: Saturday, June 24, 9-11 am

πŸ“ Where: Red Wing Arts Depot

πŸ”Ž Why: Experience the live creation of artwork from other artists around the Depot, Farmers Market and Levee Park, capturing the essence of the bustle and light in their artwork, and enjoy the opportunity to develop your on artistic abilities or inspire the curious minds of young artists. Learn some painting basics and try your hand at Plein Air painting. For kids of all ages - and kids at heart!

πŸ’‘ How: Don't miss the artistic spectacle of Downtown Day! Mark your calendars and join us in downtown Red Wing for a day filled with art, creativity, and community.