Tilghman Island hosted the first pre-competition paint out on Thursday, July 9th. All of the juried Plein Air Easton artists were invited to participate in the third annual paint-out and around forty artists did just that. Throughout the day, artists could be seen sprinkled throughout the island painting whatever caught their eyes.

New this year for the Tilghman event, was the kid’s paint-out where 15 local children were mentored by professionals, produced their own works of art and voted for their favorite painting from their peers. “Nurturing the love of plein air painting from an early age is what is going to keep the plein air movement growing. The kids created beautiful, vibrant works today and we’re hoping this paint-out will spark even more enthusiasm in our next generation,” said Marie Nuthall, Plein Air Easton Coordinator.

In the early evening, artists gathered at Harrison’s Chesapeake House to display their artwork, enjoyed some fellowship over steamed crabs (generously donated to the artists by the evening's host Buddy Harrison) and voted for their favorite painting from their peers. Mary Kellogg, of Tilghman Watermen’s Museum who spearheaded this event, said it best, “We live here and see the same things everyday so seeing our home through the eyes of these wonderful artists is such an honor.” Even the dark clouds in the distance couldn’t hamper the excitement of the artists, collectors and islanders that gathered to admire the day’s collection of artwork. Zufar Bikbov took the Artists Choice Award for the evening for his sold painting, “Waiting for a Wind” and told the audience, “I’m very happy that you like my painting.”

Next on the schedule for Friday, July 10th is a pre-competition paint-out in Cambridge with a Wet Paint Sale on the 300 block of High Street from 12-2 pm. Come on out and enjoy your lunch break in downtown Cambridge!