Plein Air West Reading 2022 June 13-18, 2022 6/17: Patrons Preview & Awards Presentation 6/18: Opens to the Public at Art on the Avenue
The 7th annual Plein Air West Reading art competition promises to be the biggest draw yet. For the second year, the June competition will be juried. From all entries received, renowned artist Valerie Craig selected a field of 30 artists to compete for a larger array of awards, including two first places: one for the best painting done in West Reading, the other, done anywhere in Berks County.
“The intention is not to tell artists what to paint, just to guide them to places of their greatest interest,” explains Karen Weber. “The multi-faceted character of Berks County can be a blessing if you know the area but a challenge if you’re new to it. If the artist is looking for picturesque neighborhoods, creeks, farmlands, industrial areas or historical sites, this can get them on the right track.” This year the artists will have four full days to paint, up from the traditional three. Check-in will be Monday, June 13, with Intake closing at noon on Friday.
Art Plus members Russell Slocum and Karen Weber will be spearheading the event, as they have since its inception in 2015. This year they’ve been joined by Kelsey Showalter and BAA board members Chris Gamber and Gloria Powell. “This event has grown every year, and the additional hands from the BAA will be a huge help,” says Russ Slocum. “The show hangs three times in one weekend: Friday at the Olympian Ballroom for the Patrons Preview, Saturday at Art on the Avenue, and Sunday at Art Plus Gallery and Say Cheese, where it’ll stay up through July. “The partnership with the BAA is a big plus on the planning side as well,” Russ continues. “With more than 200 members, they’re adding to the event’s power to secure more sponsorships and host housing for visiting artists.”
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For the last four years the competition has attracted around one-third of its participants from out of the area, including states as far away as Illinois, Massachusetts and North Carolina. A new perk for the artists, especially those coming from out of state, will be The Plein Air Painter’s Guide to Berks County. This resource compiles insights, tips and local knowledge from members of Art Plus Gallery, the Friends of Art Plus, and the BAA.
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