The Star Valley Arts Council’s fifth season of the annual Plein Air art competition, auction and sale takes place October 3-10. Artists of all ages and skill levels are invited to join the competition in which artists create landscape paintings of Star Valley and surrounding areas. Completed works will be judged for cash awards and available for auction and sale on Friday and Saturday, October 9-10 in the Western Skies Fine Art Gallery at 912 North Washington Street in Afton.

“The Star Valley Plein Air Event is such a wonderful opportunity for artists to come together, find inspiration in our beautiful valley, and challenge themselves creatively,” said Lxi Weber, SVAC Executive Director, in an email to SVI Media. “We welcome artists of all experience levels, and we love seeing the different ways each artist captures the landscapes that make this area so special.”

Painting begins on Monday, October 8 and registered artists are invited to a free breakfast at 8 a.m. in Star View Park on the corner of 5th Avenue and Adams Street in Afton. Artists must have all entry canvases stamped on or after October 3.

This year’s competition offers a Nocturne Event on Tuesday, October 6 from 7-10 p.m. in which artists will paint something in the evening lighting and air. All entries from throughout the week must be submitted for judging at the Western Skies Fine Art Gallery by 3 p.m. on October 8. The gallery will close at 7 p.m. that evening for final judging and sponsor award selections.

The Public Art Show and Sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 9 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 10. Artists are invited to the awards ceremony at 5 p.m. in the Afton Civic Center, where guests will enjoy light refreshments and receive cash prizes and recognition for their work.

Throughout the week, the Plein Air guest judge, John Hughes, will present painting demonstrations that are open to artists and the public.

“With over 40 years of experience as a plein air and studio artist, John Hughes brings a wealth of knowledge to this year’s Star Valley Plein Air event,” said Weber, who is very pleased to have Hughes as part of the Star Valley event. “He is a signature member of the American Impressionist Society and has taught at the Scottsdale Artists’ School and numerous workshops throughout the West.” Hughes has been featured in Plein Air Magazine and has work hanging in several notable galleries, including Western Skies Gallery.

“One of my favorite things about this event is seeing Star Valley through the eyes of so many different artists,” said Weber. “Each painting captures a unique moment in time, and there’s something really special about taking home an original piece of artwork depicting a place you love. We encourage everyone to come to the show and sale, enjoy the incredible talent, and consider supporting these artists by purchasing a painting.”

For more information, please visit starvalleyarts.org.