Painting outdoors creates a particular challenge. That challenge lies in shifting light. Will there be sun or shadow? What subject will the light choose? What weather conditions will mold and shape the subject to present unique tones and hues or depth of texture?

Artists relish the challenge offered in painting outdoors, which attracts painters to Plein Air events throughout the world, like the one held last week in Star Valley.  Over 80 new art pieces, depicting local landscapes and treescapes, as well as farm scenes and glimpses of Downtown Afton, were submitted for judging and auction at the conclusion of the event.

A French phrase meaning “in the open air” Plein Air celebrates the challenge of painting outdoors. According to Google, it’s a “technique that involves capturing the essence of a landscape by incorporating natural light, color, and movement into the work.” Plein Air is an opportunity that attracts artists to the challenge and enjoyment of painting in various lighting situations and weather conditions.

Thirty artists from Star Valley and surrounding communities as far away as Logan, Utah and Soda Springs, Idaho gathered for the thrill of the Plein Air challenge last week, spending four days painting in sunshine and rain. The lower temperatures and wet weather at the beginning of the week did not deter them, and several painted through the rain during the Quick Draw event on Main Street in Downtown Afton on Tuesday afternoon.

Star Valley Arts Council Treasurer and event lead, Tim Hale told Svi Media that “the weather was wet on Tuesday, but it made for some incredibly rich oil paintings across Star Valley.” Hale was “thrilled at both the turnout of artists and art buyers this year.” The increase in art sales is a “huge nod to visiting artists thinking about painting again in our valley.”

Artists and art connoisseurs were able to view and bid on the completed works throughout the day Friday and Saturday at the Western Skies Fine Arts Gallery in Afton.  Bidding was accepted online, and more paintings sold this year than have been sold during the event auctions of the past.

“We saw a particularly strong showing from watercolor artists this year,” said Hale. “We have never had so many attend, and they did some incredible work.”

Thirteen awards were presented to the Star Valley Plein Air artists during an awards ceremony held Saturday evening, September 21, in the Afton Civic Center Atrium.  Twelve of the awards were given by judges, and the final was given by the viewing public as the Viewers Choice Award.

Sponsored Purchase Awards

1st Place – Lester Lee – Veigel Barn

Sponsored by Hunter’s Furniture and Appliance

2nd Place – Lester Lee – Afton Looking East

Sponsored by Luthi & Voyles, LLC

3rd Place – Josh Labenne – Just Around the Bend

Sponsored by Hale Financial

Sponsored Quick Draw Purchase Awards

Lester Lee – Grain Towers

Josh Labenne – Afton’s Autumn Rain

Lxi Weber – Crosswalk

Judges Award – Experienced

Josh Labenne – Just Around the Bend

Lester Lee – Veigel Barn

Anne Newby – Garnish of Fall

Judges Award – Beginner

Emi Call – Bales ‘n Cows

Karlee Wilkes – Rolling In

Jesson Hoopes – The Flat

Viewer’s Choice Award

Josh Lebenne – Just Around the Bend