St. Augustine Art Association presents the 9th Annual Plein Air Paint Out
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (March 21, 2025) – Painting outside and capturing a scene just as it is in that exact moment is a tradition artists have revered for hundreds of years — and it’s back in St. Augustine for the ninth year. Presented by the St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA), artists are invited to participate in the annual Plein Air Paint Out, April 23-27, 2025. This time-honored method simply translates to “painting outdoors.” Plein Air Paint Out brings diverse artists into the streets of St. Augustine, from the grounds of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to the beaches of Anastasia Island.
“In 2016, I worked with the staff to revive this tradition, and in the spring of 2017, we successfully launched the event, ensuring that plein air painting remains a vital part of our artistic landscape,” says Catherine St. Jean, artist and incoming STAAA Board President. “Since the first Paint Out in 2017, it has become the St. Augustine Art Association’s premier event, bridging our artistic history with the present. Each year, 70+ artists from near and far set up their easels throughout the nation’s oldest city, capturing its charm in real time while engaging with the public. This celebration of outdoor painting showcases the incredible talent of participating artists and highlights the breathtaking beauty and deep history of St. Augustine.”
More than just painting in the streets, there are multiple events throughout the week for artists and locals. Works-in-progress and finished paintings can be viewed and purchased online and in-gallery from the STAAA’s “Wet Room.” The gallery will be open from 9am to 5pm daily. On Friday, April 25th at 12:30pm, meet and mingle with artists for a picnic and painting in the Radzinski Family Garden at the Lightner Museum (75 King Street). This event is free for registered plein air artists and $30 for non-artists (tickets include lunch). On Saturday, April 26th at 11am, come down to the STAAA (22 Marine Street) for a free live painting demonstration with Plein Air judge, Steven Walker, who will share his insights and expertise. On Sunday, April 27th, from 12-3pm, enjoy a free pop-up exhibit at the St. Augustine Yacht Club (442 Ocean Vista Avenue), where artists will be exhibiting one completed work from the week. From 4:30-6:30pm, the exhibit will be judged in person for awards. Tickets are very limited and are $35 for artists and $50 for non-artists. Tickets include food and drink, and all artwork will be for sale. Interested in painting en plein air? Register online today! Registration is $55 for STAAA members and $80 for non-members. Artists must be 18 years or older. For more event information, to register to paint, or to purchase tickets, visit www.staaa.org/plein-air-paint-out.
ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE ART ASSOCIATION – The St. Augustine Art Association (STAAA), located at 22 Marine Street in downtown St. Augustine, Florida, is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting excellence in the arts since 1924. STAAA supports the vibrant arts community in St. Augustine and preserves its rich artistic heritage and culture. Through exhibitions, lectures, workshops, educational programs, and outreach, STAAA fosters a creative and accessible environment for artists of all backgrounds and skill levels. Their permanent collection includes works by the founding members, known as the ‘Lost Colony’ artists. The gallery is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 12pm to 4pm, and admission is free. Photos can be found here. For more information, visit www.staaa.org, and follow along on Facebook @StAugArtAssoc and Instagram @staugartassoc
