Arts Blog

The fourth annual Finger Lakes Plein Air Competition & Festival kicks off Wednesday, June 10. More than 40 talented artists from across the United States and Canada will visit to paint the beauty of Canandaigua and the Finger Lakes.

In addition to artists, the event draws art lovers and collectors from all over. Attendees can watch the creation of fine art on location at the historic Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion, Canandaigua Lake, and other scenic spots in the lovely region. Throughout the festival, a series of engaging events will be offered, and an exhibition and sale will be held on the final day of the event at Sonnenberg.

This year's competition is to be judged by Nancy Tankersley, founder of the Easton Studio in Maryland, which hosts workshops by top painters from all over the country. The event continues through Sunday, June 14. Here are some highlights, but check the official site for more details. Events marked with an asterisk (*) require paid tickets. Call 394-0030 for details.

Wednesday, June 10: Artists will arrive in Canandaigua and begin painting.

Thursday, June 11: Juried artists will paint all day, rain or shine, in the Canandaigua Lake region. A "Meet the Artists" event* will be held, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Canandaigua Yacht Club (3524 County Road 16, Canandaigua), with an opportunity to view their preview work.

Friday, June 12: Juried artists will paint all day, rain or shine, in the Canandaigua Lake region. A Judge's Demonstration* by Nancy Tankersley will take place, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Wood Library (134 Main Street, Canandaigua).

Saturday, June 13: A "Quick Draw" event will be held 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in which juried artists will paint in and around downtown Canandaigua. Both a Judge's Choice and a People's choice winner will be announced at Finger Lakes Gallery & Frame (175 South Main Street, Canandaigua).

All local and regional artists are welcome to participate in a Community Paint Out. Register between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for the event, held 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cash prizes will be awarded to winners at 4 p.m.

A Preview Party Gala: Exhibit & Sale* will be held at the Sonnenberg Gardens Carriage House (151 Charlotte Street, Canandaigua), from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday, June 14: A Breakfast with the Artists and Early Admittance to the Exhibit and Sale* will take place 10 a.m. to noon. The exhibit and sale is free and open to the public from noon to 4 p.m.

For more upcoming events, check out our calendar!