The arts come to life in September during the annual Chincoteague Island Decoy & Art Festival plus the Chincoteague Island Plein Air Art Show & Sale!
Chincoteague Island is the kind of community that attracts artists and art-lovers. This fact is made apparent throughout the year through various art-related activities and events.
The month of September is no exception with not one but two different art related events!
The Chincoteague Island Plein Air Art Show & Sale annually brings more than 50 fine artists to for some plein air painting on Chincoteague and Assateague.
What is “plein air” painting?
Plein Air comes from the French phrase “En plein air,” meaning “in the open air.” Plein Air painting is painting outside. It is also painting in against time, against the movement of the sun and clouds, the changing of the light. This necessity to capture a scene before it changes lends a sense of energy and excitement to the work. This kind of effect is an important component of impressionist paintings, like those of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, and Claude Monet.
The artists paint at locations of their choosing around the islands. You may even see some of them at work, should you be here Friday or Saturday before the show. The sale on Saturday night allows you to meet the artists, discuss their works and, if you choose, buy on of their beautiful Chincoteague landscapes home with you! Be sure to come early, as the best pieces sell quickly.
The Chincoteague Island Decoy & Art Festival is another island tradition.
Finely detailed decoy carvings are the focus of this show but other kinds of carvings are on display, too, along with wildlife paintings, photography, jewelry, and other fine creations. The Chincoteague Decoy Carvers and Artists Association works to preserve the tradition of decoy carving, an appreciation for wildlife, sporting, and the natural world.
Much of what is on display will be for sale, giving you the opportunity to take home a one-of-a-kind treasure. You’ll also have the chance to talk to the artists and learn some of their inspiration and techniques. Vendors will also be on hand with art supplies, food, and drink.
Don’t miss these annual Chincoteague Island art events!
Chincoteague Island Plein Air Art Show & Sale
Saturday, September 10, 2016 – 6pm to 9pm
United Methodist Church Social Hall, 6253 Church St
www.chincoteagueculturalalliance.org/
Chincoteague Island Decoy & Art Festival 2016
September 3, 9am-5pm – September 4, 10am-4pm
Chincoteague Center, 6155 Community Dr
For more details, visit www.thechincoteaguecenter.com
Lodging in Chincoteague
No matter what brings you to Chincoteague, Miss Molly’s Inn is a wonderful choice for accommodations. A historic home in the downtown area, we put the island at your fingertips. Stay at our Chincoteague Island B&B for timeless comfort, value, and the traditional warm island welcome!