ST. GEORGE, Utah — Dozens of artists gathered at the red cliffs of Southern Utah to immerse themselves in the beauty of painting outdoors on Tuesday. The St. George Plein Air Festival, a beloved event that has been held in Utah for five years, once again attracted artists from across the country to celebrate the art of plein air painting. The stunning backdrop of the red cliffs and historic downtown streets provided the perfect setting for this creative gathering.
Local artist Wil Adams shared his insights with ABC.com, explaining that plein air painting involves setting up a studio outside and capturing the scene directly from nature. “Plein air is more about painting nature and how the light hits it,” Adams said. “A lot of plein air painters say it’s about chasing the light, and you have to get what you see down while you have those harsh shadows and highlights to make the painting really pop.”
The festival participants explore various locations in Southern Utah, such as the Red Heels Desert Garden, to find scenes that inspire their artistic interpretations of the landscape. Adams, who has been painting for over six years, recently began exploring plein air painting. “I’ve only been doing it for maybe a month or two months, but it’s a nice way to change up my style a bit,” he said.
Plein air painting demands a certain level of speed because the landscape changes with the light and time of day. Unlike painting from a photo or in a studio, it’s less controllable. “That’s why I’m doing it—to speed up my painting and also to look at something I may not have noticed before and really focus on just that one object,” Adams explained. “You have a whole scenery to look at, but to only pick a few items is amazing.”
The community aspect of the festival is a major draw for many artists, offering them the chance to experience the same landscape through the eyes of dozens of others. “An artist often leads a lonely life because you work alone. So, events like this are great because they allow you to socialize and get out of your head instead of being alone all the time,” Adams said.
Benefits of Participating in the Festival
- Creative Growth: Artists can experiment with new techniques and styles.
- Community Engagement: The festival fosters connections among artists and local residents.
- Nature Appreciation: Participants develop a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.
- Skill Development: The fast-paced nature of plein air painting helps improve technical skills.
Adams emphasized how the festival provides a unique opportunity to engage with the environment and other artists. “It’s a chance to step away from daily routines and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings,” he added.
The St. George Plein Air Festival continues to be a highlight for both artists and the local community, celebrating the intersection of art and nature. With its vibrant atmosphere and inspiring landscapes, the event remains a testament to the enduring power of creativity.
