Plein Air Art competition

CONTEST REGULATIONS __________________________________________________

Eligibility

This is a Plein Air (open air) art competition is open by invitation to professional and amateur artists 18+.

Medium

Any 2D painting or drawing medium may be used, including but not limited to: Charcoal, coloured pencil, pastel, watercolour, acrylics, oil paint, etc. No photography, computer generated images, or sculpture will be accepted.

All unframed works must not exceed 18” x 14”

Subject

Only landscapes will be accepted. No Still life, portraits, or other subject matter. All landscapes must reflect the real-life scenes as viewed from the old Killaloe – Ballina bridge, at that particular time. Scenes should not be posed or physically altered in any way. People and animals may be included in the scene if present but must not be the main focus.

Location

All paintings/ drawings must be completed on the old Killaloe – Ballina bridge.

Each painting/ drawing must be completed in one single outdoor session located on the bridge – with no pre marked canvases or artboards allowed.

Time frame

All paintings/ drawings must be completed during the designated time period of September 14^th , 2025. Registration sign on from 9 – 9:30 a.m. – start time at 10 a.m. .and finish time 3 p.m.

Judging will take place on day of competition , with an award ceremony to announce the winners on Sunday September 14^th, 2025 at 4 p.m.

Judging

The Plein Air art competition will be juried by guest judges including prominent artists, art directors and local business owners. The following criteria will be used:

Visual Impact – overall attraction and impact, eye catching, intriguing, compelling.

Craftsmanship – Drawing, values, skill of the medium, paint handling, presentation.

Composition – unity of a painting, effective use of elements and principles.

Colour – Not just bright colour, but colour harmony. Colour relationships. Colour balance.

Creativity – innovative use of imagery or technique, originality. Stands out from other works.

Follows all criteria in regulations

Sales

Artist may choose to sell their works, at their own discretion at the end of the event from your easels – this will be left up to you to negotiate the delivery and finishing of works directly with the buyer.

Materials and Equipment to bring with you (only bring what you need)

• A tripod/ or field easel
• Folding stool or seat
• Weights for your easel and chair (An old milk bottle filled with sand)
• Maybe a clip on umbrella to attach to your easel (weather dependent)
• Sunscreen or a hat (even on overcast days)
• Your prefer medium, oil, acrylic, pencils, brushes
• Canvas or Canvas board – Max 18” x 14”
• Paper towels, wipes or rags
• Small trash bag for waste
• Cleaning fluid for brushes – example turpentine for oils and water for acrylics and water colours.
• Pencils and paper for sketching if desired.

Don’t over pack your materials keep it light on the day. Plein Air set up should be simple and compact.

Food and Water

Bring along a drink and snacks for yourself, there are cafes and the local markets nearby on both sides of the bridge also for you to access and grab a coffee.

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS _________________________________________________

Each artist must register via email before the Sunday the 14^th September to secure your place. On the morning of the Plein air competition you will need to sign in at the designated marque on the Ballina side near the bridge from 9 a.m. till 9:30 a.m. – start time of competition begins at 10 a.m. on the bridge at your chosen location. There will be volunteers to help you set up and guide you on the day.

Free Entry Fee

For questions, please contact Melissa Ryan on 0879064401 or by email at melissa54ryan@gmail.com

Supported by Tipperary County Council and Clare County Council.