North Carolina Plein Air Art Festival

Get ready to dive into the beautiful outdoors with the North Carolina Plein Air Art Festival! This in-person event is all about celebrating creativity in nature's own studio. Watch talented artists capture stunning landscapes right before your eyes. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for a chill day outside, this festival’s got something for everyone!

Info: Experience the heart of the NC Plein Air Art Festival as featured artists paint live on location throughout New Bern and Craven County. From waterfront views to historic streets, visitors can explore the area and encounter artists capturing the landscape in real time.
Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Start your morning along New Bern’s scenic River Walk as Durre Waseem creates an original painting live on location. Set against the soft morning light, this demonstration offers a rare opportunity to watch the full creative process unfold.
Bring a chair and enjoy a front-row seat as the landscape is translated onto canvas in real time.
East Front St. & New St., River Walk
8:00–10:00 AM *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Join featured artists for an engaging and informal discussion inside the Exhibition & Sales Gallery. These talks offer insight into the creative process, techniques, and inspiration behind plein air painting.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work on display.
Historic New Bern Farmers Market
Free and open to the public

Info: Kick off the festival with an evening of art, energy, and connection.
Begin with a relaxed meet & greet, where guests can connect with featured artists and learn about their work. Then experience Dueling Brushes, a fast-paced live painting competition where teams create original works in real time.
The evening culminates in a lively auction, offering the opportunity to take home one-of-a-kind paintings fresh from the easel. https://ncpleinair.org/event/meet-greet-with-featured-artists-dueling-brushes-auction/

Info: Experience the atmosphere of painting after dark as Jill Banks creates a live nocturnal work in downtown New Bern. Set against evening light and shadow, this demonstration offers a unique perspective on plein air painting.
Watch as the scene transforms on canvas and discover how artists capture mood and light at night.
Middle St. (near Birthplace of Pepsi)
9:00–10:30 PM

Info: Experience the heart of the NC Plein Air Art Festival as featured artists paint live on location throughout New Bern and Craven County. From waterfront views to historic streets, visitors can explore the area and encounter artists capturing the landscape in real time.
Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Watch art come to life as Rajendra KC creates an original painting live in the heart of downtown New Bern. Set along Craven Street near Mitchell Hardware, this morning demonstration offers a unique opportunity to observe the full creative process—from the first brushstrokes to a finished work.
Known for his expressive watercolor technique and ability to capture fleeting light and atmosphere, Rajendra KC brings a dynamic and thoughtful approach to plein air painting. Location: Craven St. (Meet near Mitchell Hardware), New Bern NC. *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Watch art come to life as Tom Conner creates an original painting live along Oriental’s picturesque Front Street Harbor. Known for its sailboats, waterfront views, and laid-back coastal charm, Oriental provides a beautiful setting for this plein air painting demonstration. Location: Front St. Docks, Oriental,NC. *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Join featured artists for an engaging and informal discussion inside the Exhibition & Sales Gallery. These talks offer insight into the creative process, techniques, and inspiration behind plein air painting.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work on display.
Historic New Bern Farmers Market
Free and open to the public

Info: Experience the charm of New Bern’s historic district as Natalia Andreeva creates an original painting live on location at the corner of Bern and Pollock Streets. Surrounded by beautifully preserved architecture, this demonstration highlights the artist’s ability to capture subtle light, structure, and atmosphere in real time.
Trained in classical European techniques and influenced by a balance of realism and expressive interpretation, Andreeva brings a thoughtful and dynamic approach to plein air painting.

Location: Corner of Bern St. & Pollock St., New Bern, NC
May 12 | 1:00–3:00 PM* Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Unwind with an evening of creativity at Sip & Sketch with Ann & Kippy, a relaxed and welcoming sketching experience designed for artists and non-artists alike.
Hosted by festival favorites Ann and Kippy, this interactive event invites guests to enjoy beverages, conversation, and guided sketching in a casual social setting. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or simply looking for a fun night out, Sip & Sketch offers a lighthearted way to engage with the artistic spirit of the festival.
Participants will receive guidance and encouragement throughout the session while enjoying the opportunity to sketch, socialize, and create in a fun, low-pressure environment.
No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and enjoy the process.
Location: New Bern Farmer's Market
*Free but Registration required* https://ncpleinair.org/event/sip-sketch-with-ann-kippy-3/

Info: Watch art come to life as Karen Lee Crenshaw creates an original painting live at the intersection of Middle Street and New Street—one of New Bern’s most visually striking historic settings.
Framed by the iconic view of three historic churches, this demonstration highlights the artist’s ability to capture architectural character, light, and atmosphere in real time. The surrounding area includes landmarks such as First Presbyterian Church on New Street and other historic churches that define the city’s architectural landscape.
*Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/ Location: Intersection of Middle St. & New St., New Bern, NC
May 12 | 5:00–7:00 PM

Info: Watch art come to life as Rokhaya Waring creates an original painting live at the Grand Marina, set behind the DoubleTree Hotel in New Bern. This evening demonstration offers a beautiful waterfront setting, where shifting light and reflections provide the perfect backdrop for plein air painting.
As the sun lowers and the atmosphere changes, visitors can observe the full creative process—from the first brushstrokes to a finished work—while gaining insight into how artists interpret light, color, and movement on location.
Waring, an award-winning plein air painter with extensive experience exhibiting across the U.S. and Europe, brings a refined yet expressive approach to capturing landscape and atmosphere Location: Grand Marina ( Behind DoubleTree Hotel), New Bern, NC * Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Experience the heart of the NC Plein Air Art Festival as featured artists paint live on location throughout New Bern and Craven County. From waterfront views to historic streets, visitors can explore the area and encounter artists capturing the landscape in real time.
Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Discover one of New Bern’s hidden architectural gems as Janet Conway Rose creates an original painting live along James Reed Lane, just off Pollock Street. Set within a quiet brick alley framed by historic textures and a central fountain, this location offers a unique and intimate backdrop for plein air painting.
Watch as the scene unfolds from the first brushstrokes to a finished work, and gain insight into how artists interpret light, structure, and atmosphere in real time. Location: James Reed Ln (Off Pollock St.), New Bern NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Experience the working waterfront of Oriental as Sarah Baskin creates an original painting live among the shrimp boats along Front Street. Known for its quiet coastal charm and active harbor, this setting offers a dynamic backdrop of boats, reflections, and shifting light—perfect for plein air painting.
Watch as the scene comes to life from the first brushstrokes to a finished work, and gain insight into how artists capture movement, atmosphere, and color on location. Live demonstrations like this allow visitors to observe the full creative process in real time. Location: Oriental Harbor Docks, Front St. Oriental, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Katie Dobson Cundiff creates an original painting live at Duck Creek Marina in New Bern. Set along the water at this scenic marina location, the demonstration offers a dynamic backdrop of boats, reflections, and coastal light—perfect for plein air painting.
Known for her bold, impressionistic style and award-winning landscapes, Cundiff brings a vibrant and expressive approach to capturing a sense of place, light, and atmosphere. Location: Duck Creek Marina, 699 Galloway Rd, New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Join featured artists for an engaging and informal discussion inside the Exhibition & Sales Gallery. These talks offer insight into the creative process, techniques, and inspiration behind plein air painting.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work on display.
Historic New Bern Farmers Market
Free and open to the public

Info: Experience one of New Bern’s most iconic historic landmarks as M.T. McClanahan creates an original painting live from Pollock Street, capturing the beauty of Christ Episcopal Church draped in Spanish moss.
This demonstration offers a unique opportunity to observe how an artist interprets architecture, light, and atmosphere in real time. Christ Episcopal Church—dating back to the 18th century and recognized for its Gothic Revival design—provides a striking backdrop for this plein air session. Location: Christ Episcopal Church- Pollock St. New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Karl Bostwick creates an original painting live along the waterfront at Galley Store Marina on East Front Street. This evening demonstration offers a beautiful coastal setting, where boats, reflections, and shifting light provide a dynamic backdrop for plein air painting.
A dedicated oil painter for over 35 years, Bostwick is known for capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere across the landscape, bringing a thoughtful and expressive approach to painting on location. Location: Galley Store Marina, 300 E. Front St. New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Cory Wright creates an original painting live from a scenic vantage point overlooking the bridge at Brice’s Creek. Tucked behind the North Carolina History Center, this location offers a peaceful natural setting where water, trees, and reflected light come together in a dynamic coastal landscape.
Known for his expressive, atmospheric approach to plein air painting, Wright captures the movement and mood of a scene with confident brushwork and a strong sense of light. Location: View of bridge over Brice’s Creek (behind NC History Center), New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Experience the heart of the NC Plein Air Art Festival as featured artists paint live on location throughout Beaufort, New Bern and Craven County. From waterfront views to historic streets, visitors can explore the area and encounter artists capturing the landscape in real time.
Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Watch art come to life as Jeff Steiner creates an original painting live at the corner of Ann and Craven Streets in historic Beaufort. Surrounded by coastal architecture and layered history, this demonstration offers a compelling setting for capturing structure, light, and atmosphere in real time.
With a background in architecture, Steiner is known for his expressive watercolor style and ability to quickly capture the mood and character of urban and coastal scenes using bold, energetic brushwork. Location: Corner of Ann St. & Craven St., Beaufort, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Join featured artists for an engaging and informal discussion inside the Exhibition & Sales Gallery. These talks offer insight into the creative process, techniques, and inspiration behind plein air painting.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work on display.
Historic New Bern Farmers Market
Free and open to the public

Info: Watch art come to life as Armand Cabrera creates an original painting live along Beaufort’s waterfront, capturing the iconic shrimp boats from Front Street and Sunset Lane. This coastal setting offers a dynamic scene of working boats, reflections, and shifting light—perfect for plein air painting.
With a background in illustration and concept art, Cabrera brings both precision and expressive energy to his work, capturing the essence of a place quickly and with confidence. Location: Front St. & Sunset Ln., Beaufort, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Lori Keith Robinson creates an original painting live among the English-style gardens at the corner of Pollock and Eden Streets in New Bern. This lush, intimate setting offers a beautiful backdrop of greenery, light, and historic charm—ideal for plein air painting.
Known for her color-rich, expressive landscapes, Robinson brings a vibrant and thoughtful approach to capturing atmosphere and natural beauty on location. Location: Corner of Pollock St. & Eden St., New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Unwind with an evening of creativity at Sip & Sketch with Ann & Kippy, a relaxed and welcoming sketching experience designed for artists and non-artists alike.
Hosted by festival favorites Ann and Kippy, this interactive event invites guests to enjoy beverages, conversation, and guided sketching in a casual social setting. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or simply looking for a fun night out, Sip & Sketch offers a lighthearted way to engage with the artistic spirit of the festival.
Participants will receive guidance and encouragement throughout the session while enjoying the opportunity to sketch, socialize, and create in a fun, low-pressure environment.
No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity and enjoy the process.
Location: New Bern Farmer's Market
*Free but Registration required* https://ncpleinair.org/event/sip-sketch-with-ann-kippy-3/

Info: Experience the heart of the NC Plein Air Art Festival as featured artists paint live on location throughout Beaufort, New Bern and Craven County. From waterfront views to historic streets, visitors can explore the area and encounter artists capturing the landscape in real time.
Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Watch art come to life as Oleg Shvets creates an original painting live at Crayden Paul Park in Beaufort, overlooking Taylor Creek and Carrot Island. This coastal setting offers a beautiful and ever-changing scene of water, marshland, and distant shoreline—ideal for plein air painting.
As part of the NC Plein Air Art Festival, this demonstration gives visitors a rare opportunity to observe the full creative process in real time, from the first brushstrokes to a finished work. Location: Crayden Paul Park Beaufort, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Adam Houston creates an original painting live at the corner of Queen Street and Front Street in downtown New Bern. Surrounded by historic architecture and coastal charm, this location offers a rich visual setting where structure, light, and atmosphere come together.
Known for his contemporary, expressive approach to landscape and architectural painting, Houston captures the essence of a place with confident brushwork and a strong sense of composition. Location: Corner of Queen St. & Front St. New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Join featured artists for an engaging and informal discussion inside the Exhibition & Sales Gallery. These talks offer insight into the creative process, techniques, and inspiration behind plein air painting.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the work on display.
Historic New Bern Farmers Market
Free and open to the public

Info: Celebrate Beaufort’s role in the NC Plein Air Art Festival with a special gallery exhibition and public reception at the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery. View and purchase freshly completed paintings created in Beaufort, meet the artists, and enjoy an engaging evening that brings together art, collectors, and community in a lively gallery setting.

Info: Watch art come to life as Jim Rehak creates an original painting live at Lawson Creek Park, overlooking the scenic views of Jack’s Island. This waterfront setting offers a peaceful natural landscape of water, marsh, and sky—ideal for plein air painting. Location: Lawson Creek Park (Jack's Island), New Bern, NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Watch art come to life as Pearl Horng creates an original painting live near New Bern’s iconic City Hall and clock tower. Set at the corner of Craven and Pollock Streets, this demonstration offers a striking architectural backdrop, where historic structure, light, and movement converge. Location: City lot at Craven St. & Pollock St. (Near City Hall), New Bern,NC *Demonstrations are subject to change- check for last minute changes at https://www.facebook.com/pleinairnewbern/

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Info: Following final judging, the gallery doors open to reveal the complete competition exhibition in its finished installation—featuring more than 115 original plein air paintings, including 40+ works unveiled for the first time that evening. Festival jurors will formally recognize the week’s most exceptional artistic achievements as award recipients are announced.
Guests will enjoy:
• Announcement of festival award recipients
• First public viewing of the complete competition exhibition
• Full Beaufort collection, including works not previously shown in New Bern
• Remarks from juror Russell Jewell on award-winning pieces
• Live music throughout the evening
• Local food vendors and beverages available for purchase
• Continued opportunities to purchase original artwork throughout the event

Info: Stop to watch works in progress, ask questions, and see each painting unfold from start to finish. This relaxed, immersive experience invites you to engage with art in a meaningful and accessible way.
Locations vary daily
Visit ncpleinair.org for artist locations

Info: Visit the central hub of the NC Plein Air Art Festival at the Historic New Bern Farmers Market. The Exhibition & Sales Gallery features original works created throughout the week by participating artists.
Browse a curated and continually updated collection, meet artists, and purchase artwork directly. Conveniently located near Tryon Palace, the gallery offers an inviting space to experience the festival in one place.
Farmer's Market-421 S Front Street, New Bern
Open daily

Event Venue

New Bern Farmers Market, 421 South Front Street, New Bern, United States

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