Annual Plein Air Competition at the Paint the Town Labor Day Show

One of the special highlights of our annual Paint the Town Labor Day Show is our Plein Air Competition. "Plein air" means making art from life, and it generally happens outdoors.

During our competition, artists have from 7 am-3 pm to complete one (1) two-dimensional work of art within the boundaries of Kensington, Maryland, and turn it in for judging. Prizes will be awarded during a reception that evening at 6 pm in youth and adult categories.

Artwork may be priced for sale and left on display at the Kensington Armory through Monday's exhibition. 

This activity is open to members, non-members and children.

Registration: Register on this page in advance, or in person at the Kensington Armory on September 3.

Cost: The competition is free for MAA members in good standing and for children. Non-member adults pay $10 per person.

Competition rules:

• Your canvas or paper must be stamped on Saturday, September 3 by one of our volunteers at the Kensington Armory, 3710 Mitchell Street; doors open at 7 am. 
• You may have multiple pieces of substrate stamped, but you may only turn in one piece for judging and sale.
• You must complete your artwork anywhere within Kensington, Maryland (within the boundaries of ZIP code 20895).
• In order to be judged, your art must be dropped off and labeled by 3 pm sharp. If you miss the 3 pm deadline, you may still display your work and have it marked for sale, but it will not be judged. 
• Framing is optional. Framing requires that wiring (D-ring + wire) be attached.
  
• Art may be priced for sale and left on display at the Paint the Town Labor Day Show through Monday. If you do not wish to mark your piece for sale, you may note "Not for Sale"). 
• Artwork must be picked up on September 5 from 5-8 pm or September 6 from 9-11 am. 
• Artists whose works sell will receive a commission check by mail within 30 days. The artist retains 75% of the sale price and MAA receives a 25% commission, which goes to support our charitable mission.

Download the 2022 Plein Air Rules for complete details.

Competition Rules