Every year in September, Plein Air Smokies brings nationally acclaimed artists to the region for a week of painting inspired by Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding landscape! This event benefits the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and offers a special opportunity to take home a unique piece of artwork from the Smokies. Learn more about this upcoming special event:
What to Expect
Plein Air Smokies brings nationally acclaimed artists to the Smoky Mountains for a week of plein air painting, and all of the paintings are up for sale to benefit the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. Plein air painting is an art tradition centered on working outdoors, with artists responding directly to the landscape, light, and beauty around them. Whether you want to watch artists at work, pick up a brush yourself, or collect an original piece of Smokies-inspired art, you’re invited to come experience plein air painting in the way that interests you most!
Special Events Throughout the Week
There are several special events during Plein Air Smokies that you can enjoy throughout the week! Experience the charm of Townsend like never before during the “Hey Townsend” paintout. This is an afternoon of live outdoor painting with all of the event’s featured artists in one extraordinary location! If you are interested in bringing some artwork home, don’t miss the Gallery Sale and Collector’s Celebration. This is the first opportunity to view and purchase the stunning original works that have been created throughout the week! This elegant evening also features hors d’oeuvres and drinks, as well as the chance to celebrate the artist awards.
Join the Fun with Your Own Plein Air Painting
You can join the fun of plein air painting with the Plein Air Smokies Quick Draw Competition! In this fast-paced challenge, create paintings on the spot that capture the light, color, and spirit of the day. Whether you’re a seasoned plein air painter or just curious to try, the Quick Draw Competition Open Division is your invitation to dive in, trust your eye, and let the moment guide your art! Cash prizes will be awarded, and paintings will be on display for public viewing and sales.
About Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is an environmental learning center near Townsend TN that works with the National Park Service to provide immersive nature and science programs for all ages. The institute hosts field trips, summer youth camps, family camps and adult naturalist workshops, and participants study everything from stream physics and local wildlife to Southern Appalachian ecology. Altogether, the institute has been connecting people and nature for over 50 years!
Now that you know more about Plein Air Smokies, don’t miss the opportunity to attend this annual event that supports Tremont’s vision to connect people of all ages with nature through immersive, hands-on experiences in the Smokies! We also recommend taking the time to visit the institute itself whenever you’re in the area; learn more about why you should check out the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont.
