MEEKER I Artists taking part in Plein Air Meeker 2014 have been visible along Rio Blanco County roads and forests within 50 miles of Meeker as the painters have focused on outdoor art available thanks to Mother Nature.
“En plein air” is French for “in the open air,” and the artists, who started the two-week painting competition on June 18, had been painting until Wednesday in the natural light to complete a painting on location. There are cash prizes, and the best of show art will win $1,000.
The paintings must have been turned in by 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Most will be painted in water colors, oils, acrylics or pastels, but any medium may be used.
On Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. will be the champagne toast at the “Wanderlust Gallery,” being set up at 640 W. Main St., a public meet and greet with the artists and the beginning of the silent auction.
Also on Friday, the quick-draw competition runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the courthouse lawn downtown.