September 12- 15: "Battle of the Brushes"
Posted on 9.10.12
Photo by Richard Oversmith
From September 12 until September 15, painters will set up shop outside for the second annual “Battle of the Brushes,” a plein air competition sponsored by the Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League (A3L) and town of Old Fort.
Registration ends September 11. Participants choose subjects within a five mile radius of downtown Old Fort. Subject content includes historic buildings, a replica of a pioneer fort, a 19th century train depot, trout steams, lush waterfalls, and the Pisgah National Forest.
Registration will be closed on September 11. By definition and practice, the art of plein air painting is accomplished in the field, on location, and in real time. For purposes of this competition, however, A3L strongly encourages competing artists to complete 100% of their pieces on location. Any artwork submitted must be at least 80% painted outside, on location, and in real time.
Completed work must be turned in, wired, framed or museum gallery wrapped, and ready to hang (no alligator hangers) at the Old Fort Train Depot by no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 16. Judging begins at 10:00 a.m. so the earlier, the better.
“A3L is a non-profit organization on a mission to have artists work with all ages to promote a renewed interest in the arts, to increase the flow of business entering our rural county and to give artists and artisans a media to display their work,” explains Marlene Spitz on behalf of the league.
Additionally, an artist market is held on the first Saturday of each month at the Old Fort train depot (25 Main Street) from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Preview a wide range of artistic styles. An “artist of the month” will present demonstrations.
While you’re in Old Fort for any of these events, visit Curtis Creek Waterfalls, the Royal Geyser, and miles of national forest.
Sign-in for the plein air art competition begins at 9:00 a.m. on September 12 at the Old Fort Train Depot, Railroad Museum, and Visitors Center at 25 West Main Street in Old Fort. For more information these two events and to register for “Battle of the Brushes,” visit online at arrowheadart.org.
