Plein Air in the Parks is a collaborative weekend event presented by Wyoming State Parks, the Wyoming Arts Council, and the Cody Country Art League. Taking place Aug. 27-30 at Buffalo Bill State Park, this painting and drawing competition pairs talented artists with beautiful locations, and offers cash prizes to top participants. 

Registration for youth and adult categories is now open and available online at https://2020pleinairintheparks.eventbrite.com. Early bird registration is available through Aug. 24 and is $35.00 for artists. Regular and walk up registration after Aug. 24 will be $50.00. A reduced rate for college students is available for $15.00 and a youth division rate for those under the age of 18 is available for $5.00. Artists will have the option of selling pieces produced during the event at the concluding reception and art show. 

Participating artists must first stamp their canvases at the Cody Country Art League (836 Sheridan Ave., Cody) or at the Sheep Mountain Area at Buffalo Bill State Park (4192 Northfork Hwy.). From there artists can look forward to a weekend of outdoor, on location, plein air painting in Buffalo Bill State Park. At least 75% of entered works must be produced outdoors and within the bounds of the park.

“Plein Air in the Parks is now in its third year and we are excited to once again be partnering with State Parks,” says Rachel Clifton, Assistant Director of the Wyoming Arts Council. “The Cody Country Art League has been a big support and we are looking forward to holding the event in a new location this year at Buffalo Bill State Park.”

The competition will be judged anonymously by a panel comprised of those with an arts background, representatives from the community, and individuals familiar with Buffalo Bill State Park. The Best in Show Cash Award will be $1,000, while 2nd and 3rd place prizes go for $500 and $250 respectively. The public is invited to attend a reception on Sunday, Aug. 30 and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, a $250 cash award, and to purchase artwork produced during the event. Youth categories will be judged separately and also include cash awards. 

For full rules and regulations, visit wyoarts.state.wy.us/wac-program/plein-air.