Make the most of good weather and join us to paint en plein air at Great Falls Park on the Maryland side of the falls. We will offer two days of painting, on a Friday and a Saturday, so that those who work during the week have an opportunity to join in, too. Subjects include the falls themselves, the historic Great Falls Tavern, the C&O Canal, the canal boat, and more.
Where to meet: You're welcomed to arrive at anytime, but if you'd like to say hello to other members before you start painting, our group will assemble at the start each day at the canal-facing entrance of the Great Falls Tavern Visitors Center building, as shown in the photo above.
Subjects: The Maryland side of Great Falls is a part of the C & O Canal National Historic Park and is located off of Falls Road in Potomac. In addition to the historic tavern building, there are two falls overlooks near the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. To the north, the Washington Aqueduct Observation Deck offers a view of the upper falls. To the south, the Olmsted Island Bridges offer several scenic views of the Great Falls.
There are several hiking trails in this area, too, including the famed Billy Goat Trail. You should note that portions of the trail are challenging so you need to keep your painting gear manageable and lightweight.
The tavern itself was built in 1828 and serves as the visitor center offering historical exhibits and interpretive programs. The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Amenities: Restrooms are available in the visitors center. Please bring your food/drinks as none is available to purchase onsite.
Cost: Our plein air event is free for registered members. The park itself charges a $20 admission fee per vehicle, good for seven days (or use an annual pass if you have one). You can prepay for entry pass online to save time. Tip: To save money, consider carpooling with fellow artists! Post a message on our private members' Facebook group if you'd like to try to arrange a carpool.
Registration: Please indicate which day (or both) you'll be joining.
Host: Plein air chair Sandhya Sharma will be on site both days. Email her at sandhya02sharma@yahoo.com if you have any questions.
© 2024 Montgomery Art Association Inc., PO Box 2154, Kensington, MD 20891