2pmBrushes & History: A Plein Air Paint Out
435 Meier Ave, Spearfish · verified Sep 27
Free▸
Matthews Opera House and the Spearfish Museum present a plein air paint out celebrating 150 years of Spearfish history. Set at the future home of the Spearfish Museum, the gathering invites local and regional artists to create outdoors in response to the people, places, landscapes, buildings, and stories that define the community.
Artists can work on site, from historic references, or at another nearby spot, with subject matter tied to Spearfish history. Historic buildings used as subjects should be at least 50 years old. Participants bring their own materials, easels, seating, and supplies. Registration is 20 dollars, with proceeds shared between the Spearfish Museum and Matthews Opera House.
The public can attend at no cost. Visitors can watch the creative process, talk with artists, explore local history, vote for a People’s Choice favorite, and purchase available artwork. Donations are welcomed and support both hosts. Parking and restrooms are available at Brady Park.
The day begins with artist check in, followed by a painting period while the public browses. Brushes go down for judging and community voting, then artwork is displayed during a social hour and awards are announced.
Awards include a People’s Choice selected by community vote and juried First, Second, and Third place honors chosen by a panel of local artists and historians. Prizes are gift cards from local businesses. Winning works will be exhibited at the Matthews Opera House, then shown by the Spearfish Museum during Paul Higbee’s presentations.
Finished event pieces should remain on the artist’s easel during the display and voting window. A limited number of small display easels may be available from The Matthews. Artists may sell work during the social hour without commission. Those wishing to bring or sell additional pieces should supply their own display materials and handle their own transactions.