Festival Overview
Check-In And Canvas Stamping
Beginning the week-long celebration of outdoor painting, artists make their first stop at OMA for canvas stamping and to pick up their welcome packet, including a full festival itinerary, tips for how to explore Oceanside, and information showcasing local businesses.
Paint Out, Workshops, And Artist Talks
Artists at any level of experience are invited to come to the burgeoning coastal city of Oceanside to paint Southern California in the open air. To explore a variety of styles and techniques that draw from the rich traditions of plein air painting, artists will also have the opportunity to add a variety of art workshops and artist talks with featured artists Mark Fehlman, Danny Griego, Margaret Larlham, and Shuang Li.
Quick Paint Challenge
Open to all registered festival participants, this fun, high-energy event brings together both artists and spectators for a two-hour burst of creativity highlighting some of Oceanside’s most iconic outdoor locations. With the task of completing a painting in a single sitting, Quick Paint artists are challenged to grab a brush, set up an easel, and paint en plein air for all to see.
Awards Celebration And Art Sale
Celebrate the culmination of OMA’s inaugural Plein Air Festival and the opening of an exhibition of artwork by participants with an awards presentation, silent auction, and highlights from the week. We are making plans for the event to be even more accessible to art lovers near and far!
Juried Exhibition
This will be a rare opportunity to view and collect artworks from prominent plein air painters at pricing that is approachable for collectors at any level. The exhibition will be on view at OMA August 1–October 10.
Registration Information
Registration Dates
- Opens March 1
- Ends July 29 at 5:00pm
Registration Fees
Fees increase on July 1, so register early.
March 1–June 30
Standard $55
OMA Artist Alliance* $45
Student** Free
July 1–29
Standard $75
OMA Artist Alliance* $65
Student** Free
*OMA Artist Alliance members—your membership must be current. Not a member yet? Click here to join and add Artist Alliance.
**A valid student ID must be presented upon arrival at OMA for festival check-in.
Free student registration is generously underwritten by sponsor Chris Clevering.
Check-In And Canvas Stamping
All participating artists must check-in and have the surfaces on which they would like to create artwork stamped prior to beginning their artwork in order to participate in the competition (including the surface that will be used for the Quick Paint Challenge, should they wish to participate). Get here early so you have more time to paint!
- Welcome packs, artist badges, and festival schedules will be provided at check-in.
- Artists will be asked to sign a waiver accepting the rules and guidelines upon check-in.
Check-In And Canvas Stamping Hours
- Saturday–Thursday, July 24–29, 11:00am-5:00pm
Registration Includes
- Entry of up to two paintings into the awards competition and exhibition jurying
- Each painting entered into the competition may be listed for sale during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale
- Artwork accepted in the exhibition will be offered for auction via a virtual platform throughout the exhibition
- Entry of one artwork into the Quick Paint Challenge
- Participation in all painting events (ticketed workshops require separate registration)
- A 25% discount off ticketed festival events—space is limited and many are sure to fill up quickly, so register early for your favorites!
Waived Registration
Limited funds are available to support waived registration for individuals who are experiencing hardship. Individuals interested in requesting fees to be waived must submit an application by June 13, 2021. Waived fees will only apply to festival registration and will not include associated ticketed festival events and programs. Click here to email Vic with any questions regarding waived registration.
Plan Your Stay In Oceanside
There are a number of stunning hotels within walking distance of the museum. We want planning your time in Oceanside to be as easy as possible so we’ve partnered with Visit Oceanside who has put together the best lodging and hotel deals for the Plein Air Festival.
Click here to learn more or connect with Dana and Michelle for more personal concierge service. They are available to help you find accommodations that suit your style as well as make recommendations for dining and local side trips while you’re in Oceanside.
Dana Higgins
Dana@VisitOceanside.org
(760) 637-9953
Michelle Martini-Brown
Michelle@VisitOceanside.org
(760) 458-6016
Explore Oceanside
Oceanside is a laid-back SoCal beach town with gorgeous beaches, an iconic wooden pier, the historic Mission San Luis Rey, quaint New England-style harbor, charming bungalow neighborhoods, and abundant urban and natural vistas to capture on the canvas of your choice.
Click here to explore our beautiful town and discover restaurants, shops, and things to do in between paint outs.
With so many beautiful places to stay within walking distance of the museum and scheduled painting events, connect with the experts at Visit Oceanside for free concierge service in selecting the right hotel for your stay.
Plein Air Festival Schedule
Saturday, July 24
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Sunday, July 25
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Painting at the Harbor with featured artist Mark Fehlman
(ticketed event $90)
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Monday, July 26
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Capturing the Character of Indigenous Plants in Plein Air Painting with featured artist Margaret Larlham
(ticketed event $90)
6:30-8:00pm
Paint Out: Sunset Sonatas on the Sand
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Tuesday, July 27
2:00-4:00pm
Paint Out: Quick Paint Challenge and Art Sale
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Wednesday, July 28
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Exploring Watercolors and Luminous Landscapes with featured artist Shuang Li
(ticketed event $90)
6:30-8:00pm
Paint Out: Nocturnal Notes
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Thursday, July 29
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Painting Urban Landscapes with featured artist Danny Griego
(ticketed event $90)
10:00am-12:00pm
Paint Out: Farmers Market
7:00–8:00pm
Smalltalk: Plein Air Painters Roundup, SoCal Edition
(ticketed event $25)
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Friday, July 30
8:00–10:00am
Final deadline to submit artwork.
A specific time window will be assigned in each artist’s welcome pack.
7:00–8:00pm
Lecture: Painting En Plein Air With Jean Stern
(ticketed event $25)
Saturday, July 31
Awards Celebration
August 1-October 10
Painting Events
In addition to having the opportunity for all-day independent free painting throughout the festival, there are a number of scheduled panting events included with registration, as well as ticketed workshops with the festival’s featured artists. Registered artists must present their Festival Badge to participate in any non-ticketed programs.
july, 2021
Ticketed Events
Plein Air Festival registrants receive 25% off registration for these ticketed programs as well as early access to sign up through April 30 before they open up to the general public on May 1. Space is limited, so register early for your favorites. Artists must bring all supplies necessary to participate in these workshops.
july, 2021
Art Sales
All artwork produced during the festival may be sold throughout the week of the festival, if the artist chooses to mark the artwork for sale. OMA will retain 50% of the artwork sale price (plus all applicable sales tax).
There will be many official opportunities for artists to sell their work:
- Artwork selected for the exhibition will be included on an online auction platform. The auction will open during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale on July 31 and close at the end of the exhibition on October 10.
- Artwork submitted for jurying that is not selected for the exhibition will be for sale at the museum on July 31, during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale.
- Artwork produced as part of the Quick Paint Challenge will be on view in OMA's lobby and for sale through July 31, if the artist chooses to bring their Quick Paint artwork to the museum for inclusion in this sale.
- A staff member with a mobile device will be present to process sales at all ticketed festival events and scheduled painting events.
Additionally, artists may sell any work they create "off the easel" during independent free painting. However, if an OMA staff person is not present to assist with this transaction, we ask that you kindly follow the honor system and make a donation of 50% of the proceeds of the sale to the museum.
If artwork for sale on OMA premises (created during the Quick Paint Challenge, submitted for jurying, or as part of the exhibition) does not sell, it must be picked up by the artist at the end of the sales opportunity (on July 31 after the Awards Celebration and Art Sale, or at the end of the exhibition). If the artist is no longer in the area, they will be responsible for shipping fees. Any artwork remaining at OMA more than 90 days after the close of the art sale or auction it was a part of will be considered an unrestricted donation to the museum.
OMA will aim to disburse all artist commissions earned during the festival within the month of August. Commissions for sales from the exhibition will be disbursed in October.
California state sales tax of 8.25% will be added to all purchases at checkout.
Awards
$2,500 Best in Show, judged by Jean Stern
Includes a half-page ad in Southwest Art magazine valued at $1,230 and guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$300 Second Place, judged by Scott W. Prior
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$200 Third Place, judged by Maria Mingalone
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$300 Chris Clevering Student Achievement Award
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
OMA Museum Award For Best Alternative Approach
Artist will receive an OMA Patron level membership, further awards to be announced.
Royal Talens Award ($150 in value)
Artist will receive a Rembrandt Oil Colour Basic Set, Roc Paper Block 300g Canvas Grain 24cm x 32cm, and Rembrandt Soft Pastel 10 Half Stick Micro Set Southwest Desert Palette.
People’s Choice Award
Details to be announced.
Honorable Mentions
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition.
Judging will be based on the artist’s mastery of the medium, quality of composition, and the use of perspective and color. In addition to outstanding ability in those areas, the artwork is assessed on intangible qualities such as its meaning, appeal, beauty, and the overall impact and expressiveness of the work.
All awards, with the exception of the People’s Choice award, will be announced at the Awards Celebration and Art Sale taking place at OMA on Saturday, July 31. The People’s Choice award will be announced after the close of the exhibition to the public, October 10, 2021.
Additional awards are in development. Please check back regularly for updated information.
Many thanks to our awards sponsors:
Deena Altman
Royal Talens
Southwest Art magazine
Chris Clevering
Festival Rules And Guidelines
- Artwork in any media is allowed—non-traditional is encouraged!
Contact Katie Dolgov at OMA to discuss your non-traditional submissions (media other than painting, drawing, or sculpture).
- At least 80% of the artwork must be completed out of doors. If there is any concern that a larger percentage of your artwork was completed in the studio, you will be asked to provide progression snapshots of your work being completed en plein air.
- Artwork may be in any style (Impressionism, Realism, Abstract, etc.).
- There is no limit to the number of surfaces you may have stamped.
- Artists may only choose two works to submit for awards and jurying.
- Every artist will receive two stickers in their welcome pack to accompany their artworks for submission. Carefully print the artwork title and price on the label for each piece submitted. These will be used as the wall labels, so confirm all information is legible.
- Artists may sign the front or the back of their artwork.
- Artists must wear identifying badges while painting. Badges will be provided in your welcome pack.
- There is no defined painting area. However, at least one artwork must be painted in Oceanside. (View a map of suggested painting locations here.)
- 2D work is required to be framed and ready to hang when it is delivered to the museum.
- Maximum 2D size: 24" x 36" not including frame.
- Maximum 3D size: 24" x 24" x 24".
- Artists are encouraged to create small works (under 10" on each side), which are often collector favorites.
- The sale price should take into account a 50% commission to OMA.
- Sales tax of 8.25% will be added to all art sales.
- Artwork does not need to be marked for sale, NFS is allowed.
- It is suggested that you bring all the supplies and frames that you will need.
Quick Paint Challenge Entry Information And Requirements (subject to change)
Join us for the Quick Paint Challenge, a timed open-air painting event open to all festival registrants. Quick Paint participants will set up within a designated area with a stamped blank canvas and their supplies. Painting will start at the sound of the first horn. When the second horn sounds, brushes must be placed down. The finished creation may be sold off the easel (see the Art Sales tab), submitted onsite to OMA staff for further sales opportunities, or packed up as a personal keepsake. Artwork submitted to OMA staff must be framed.
- The Quick Paint Challenge will be held on Tuesday, July 27, 2:00-4:00pm at a location to be determined.
- Any artist who has registered for the festival is welcome to participate in this event. The public will be invited to observe, but walk-on participation is prohibited.
- To be valid for the Quick Paint Challenge, all canvases must be stamped prior to the beginning of the event. Canvas stamping will be available onsite at OMA July 24–29, 11:00am–5:00pm.
- Artists will have two hours to paint during the Quick Paint Challenge.
- All artwork created during the event may be available for sale at OMA throughout the week of the festival, if the artist chooses to mark the artwork for sale.
- If an artwork does not sell during the week and the artist would like to have it returned to them, they will be responsible for picking it up from the museum or paying the shipping fees.
Terms And Conditions
By registering, artists acknowledge and authorize the use of photos taken throughout the event, which may include artists and their artwork, for promotional use online and in printed materials for future events.
Artists acknowledge and agree that Oceanside Museum of Art will retain 50% of the sale price of individual art sales generated during the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate in plein air workshops and attend lectures even if I am not registered for the festival?
Yes, anyone can participate in OMA's ticketed programs. Festival registrants receive a 25% discount on ticketed workshops, artist talks, and lectures during the festival. Workshop participation is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I participate in the Quick Paint Challenge or other non-ticketed painting events even if I am not registered for the festival?
No, only registered festival participants can take part in the Paint Out: Sunset Sonatas on the Sand, (Monday, July 26, 6:30-8:00pm), Paint Out: Quick Paint Challenge and Art Sale, (Tuesday, July 27, 2:00-4:00pm), Paint Out: Nocturnal Notes (Wednesday, July 28, 6:30-8:00pm), and Paint Out: Farmers Market (Thursday, July 29, 10:00am-12:00pm). Registered artists must present their Festival Badge to participate in any non-ticketed programs.
If my artwork is chosen for the exhibition, does it need to stay in the exhibition if it sells?
Yes, all artwork chosen for the exhibition must remain at the museum until the exhibition closes on October 10.
Can I get the surface on which I will create art stamped before the competition starts?
No. Stamping begins at 11:00am on July 24, 2021.
Can I get more surfaces on which I will create art stamped after I’ve checked in?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of surfaces you may have stamped. Surfaces may be stamped July 24–29, 11:00am-5:00pm.
Are there limitations on where I may paint?
There is no defined painting area. However, at least one artwork must be painted in Oceanside. (View a map of suggested painting locations here.)
How do I get my artwork back at the end of the exhibition?
Artwork may be picked up on Thursday, October 14 and Friday, October 15 from the museum. Shipping can be arranged for artists who do not live within driving distance of the museum. If artwork sells from the exhibition, the buyer will be responsible for arranging transportation. Further details for artwork return will be shared with exhibiting artists within the weeks after the exhibition opens. Dates are subject to change.
May I sign my artwork?
Yes, you may sign your artwork on the front or back.
Is there an age restriction to participate?
All ages are welcome and encouraged.
I need to cancel my registration for the festival or a program. May I have a refund?
Refunds are not available for the registration fees or program fees associated with this festival. If you are unable to attend the festival or program you registered for, the fees will become a tax-deductible donation to the museum.
What level of student can apply?
High school or college students may participate. Students must show a valid photo ID for the spring, summer, or fall 2021 terms to qualify for free registration.
What kind of student ID will be accepted for free registration?
Students will need to present a valid high school or college ID for the Spring, Summer, or Fall 2021 term when they check in for the festival at OMA.
Are there any hotels close to the museum?
There are a number of stunning hotels within walking distance of OMA. Click here for details or connect with Dana [(760) 637-9953] and Michelle [(760) 458-6016] for more personal concierge service. They are available to help you find accommodations that suit your style as well as make recommendations for dining and local side trips while you’re in Oceanside.
What if I have a question that is not answered here?
Click here to email Katie Dolgov with any further questions.
Festival Overview
Check-In And Canvas Stamping
Beginning the week-long celebration of outdoor painting, artists make their first stop at OMA for canvas stamping and to pick up their welcome packet, including a full festival itinerary, tips for how to explore Oceanside, and information showcasing local businesses.
Paint Out, Workshops, And Artist Talks
Artists at any level of experience are invited to come to the burgeoning coastal city of Oceanside to paint Southern California in the open air. To explore a variety of styles and techniques that draw from the rich traditions of plein air painting, artists will also have the opportunity to add a variety of art workshops and artist talks with featured artists Mark Fehlman, Danny Griego, Margaret Larlham, and Shuang Li.
Quick Paint Challenge
Open to all registered festival participants, this fun, high-energy event brings together both artists and spectators for a two-hour burst of creativity highlighting some of Oceanside’s most iconic outdoor locations. With the task of completing a painting in a single sitting, Quick Paint artists are challenged to grab a brush, set up an easel, and paint en plein air for all to see.
Awards Celebration And Art Sale
Celebrate the culmination of OMA’s inaugural Plein Air Festival and the opening of an exhibition of artwork by participants with an awards presentation, silent auction, and highlights from the week. We are making plans for the event to be even more accessible to art lovers near and far!
Juried Exhibition
This will be a rare opportunity to view and collect artworks from prominent plein air painters at pricing that is approachable for collectors at any level. The exhibition will be on view at OMA August 1–October 10.
Registration Information
Registration Dates
- Opens March 1
- Ends July 29 at 5:00pm
Registration Fees
Fees increase on July 1, so register early.
March 1–June 30
Standard $55
OMA Artist Alliance* $45
Student** Free
July 1–29
Standard $75
OMA Artist Alliance* $65
Student** Free
*OMA Artist Alliance members—your membership must be current. Not a member yet? Click here to join and add Artist Alliance.
**A valid student ID must be presented upon arrival at OMA for festival check-in.
Free student registration is generously underwritten by sponsor Chris Clevering.
Check-In And Canvas Stamping
All participating artists must check-in and have the surfaces on which they would like to create artwork stamped prior to beginning their artwork in order to participate in the competition (including the surface that will be used for the Quick Paint Challenge, should they wish to participate). Get here early so you have more time to paint!
- Welcome packs, artist badges, and festival schedules will be provided at check-in.
- Artists will be asked to sign a waiver accepting the rules and guidelines upon check-in.
Check-In And Canvas Stamping Hours
- Saturday–Thursday, July 24–29, 11:00am-5:00pm
Registration Includes
- Entry of up to two paintings into the awards competition and exhibition jurying
- Each painting entered into the competition may be listed for sale during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale
- Artwork accepted in the exhibition will be offered for auction via a virtual platform throughout the exhibition
- Entry of one artwork into the Quick Paint Challenge
- Participation in all painting events (ticketed workshops require separate registration)
- A 25% discount off ticketed festival events—space is limited and many are sure to fill up quickly, so register early for your favorites!
Waived Registration
Limited funds are available to support waived registration for individuals who are experiencing hardship. Individuals interested in requesting fees to be waived must submit an application by June 13, 2021. Waived fees will only apply to festival registration and will not include associated ticketed festival events and programs. Click here to email Vic with any questions regarding waived registration.
Plan Your Stay In Oceanside
There are a number of stunning hotels within walking distance of the museum. We want planning your time in Oceanside to be as easy as possible so we’ve partnered with Visit Oceanside who has put together the best lodging and hotel deals for the Plein Air Festival.
Click here to learn more or connect with Dana and Michelle for more personal concierge service. They are available to help you find accommodations that suit your style as well as make recommendations for dining and local side trips while you’re in Oceanside.
Dana Higgins
Dana@VisitOceanside.org
(760) 637-9953
Michelle Martini-Brown
Michelle@VisitOceanside.org
(760) 458-6016
Explore Oceanside
Oceanside is a laid-back SoCal beach town with gorgeous beaches, an iconic wooden pier, the historic Mission San Luis Rey, quaint New England-style harbor, charming bungalow neighborhoods, and abundant urban and natural vistas to capture on the canvas of your choice.
Click here to explore our beautiful town and discover restaurants, shops, and things to do in between paint outs.
With so many beautiful places to stay within walking distance of the museum and scheduled painting events, connect with the experts at Visit Oceanside for free concierge service in selecting the right hotel for your stay.
Plein Air Festival Schedule
Saturday, July 24
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Sunday, July 25
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Painting at the Harbor with featured artist Mark Fehlman
(ticketed event $90)
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Monday, July 26
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Capturing the Character of Indigenous Plants in Plein Air Painting with featured artist Margaret Larlham
(ticketed event $90)
6:30-8:00pm
Paint Out: Sunset Sonatas on the Sand
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Tuesday, July 27
2:00-4:00pm
Paint Out: Quick Paint Challenge and Art Sale
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Wednesday, July 28
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Exploring Watercolors and Luminous Landscapes with featured artist Shuang Li
(ticketed event $90)
6:30-8:00pm
Paint Out: Nocturnal Notes
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Thursday, July 29
9:00am-12:30pm
Workshop: Painting Urban Landscapes with featured artist Danny Griego
(ticketed event $90)
10:00am-12:00pm
Paint Out: Farmers Market
7:00–8:00pm
Smalltalk: Plein Air Painters Roundup, SoCal Edition
(ticketed event $25)
All Day
Independent free paint (map of suggested locations)
Check-in and canvas stamping (11:00am–5:00pm)
Friday, July 30
8:00–10:00am
Final deadline to submit artwork.
A specific time window will be assigned in each artist’s welcome pack.
7:00–8:00pm
Lecture: Painting En Plein Air With Jean Stern
(ticketed event $25)
Saturday, July 31
Awards Celebration
August 1-October 10
Painting Events
In addition to having the opportunity for all-day independent free painting throughout the festival, there are a number of scheduled panting events included with registration, as well as ticketed workshops with the festival’s featured artists. Registered artists must present their Festival Badge to participate in any non-ticketed programs.
july, 2021
Ticketed Events
Plein Air Festival registrants receive 25% off registration for these ticketed programs as well as early access to sign up through April 30 before they open up to the general public on May 1. Space is limited, so register early for your favorites. Artists must bring all supplies necessary to participate in these workshops.
july, 2021
Art Sales
All artwork produced during the festival may be sold throughout the week of the festival, if the artist chooses to mark the artwork for sale. OMA will retain 50% of the artwork sale price (plus all applicable sales tax).
There will be many official opportunities for artists to sell their work:
- Artwork selected for the exhibition will be included on an online auction platform. The auction will open during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale on July 31 and close at the end of the exhibition on October 10.
- Artwork submitted for jurying that is not selected for the exhibition will be for sale at the museum on July 31, during the Awards Celebration and Art Sale.
- Artwork produced as part of the Quick Paint Challenge will be on view in OMA's lobby and for sale through July 31, if the artist chooses to bring their Quick Paint artwork to the museum for inclusion in this sale.
- A staff member with a mobile device will be present to process sales at all ticketed festival events and scheduled painting events.
Additionally, artists may sell any work they create "off the easel" during independent free painting. However, if an OMA staff person is not present to assist with this transaction, we ask that you kindly follow the honor system and make a donation of 50% of the proceeds of the sale to the museum.
If artwork for sale on OMA premises (created during the Quick Paint Challenge, submitted for jurying, or as part of the exhibition) does not sell, it must be picked up by the artist at the end of the sales opportunity (on July 31 after the Awards Celebration and Art Sale, or at the end of the exhibition). If the artist is no longer in the area, they will be responsible for shipping fees. Any artwork remaining at OMA more than 90 days after the close of the art sale or auction it was a part of will be considered an unrestricted donation to the museum.
OMA will aim to disburse all artist commissions earned during the festival within the month of August. Commissions for sales from the exhibition will be disbursed in October.
California state sales tax of 8.25% will be added to all purchases at checkout.
Awards
$2,500 Best in Show, judged by Jean Stern
Includes a half-page ad in Southwest Art magazine valued at $1,230 and guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$300 Second Place, judged by Scott W. Prior
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$200 Third Place, judged by Maria Mingalone
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
$300 Chris Clevering Student Achievement Award
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition
OMA Museum Award For Best Alternative Approach
Artist will receive an OMA Patron level membership, further awards to be announced.
Royal Talens Award ($150 in value)
Artist will receive a Rembrandt Oil Colour Basic Set, Roc Paper Block 300g Canvas Grain 24cm x 32cm, and Rembrandt Soft Pastel 10 Half Stick Micro Set Southwest Desert Palette.
People’s Choice Award
Details to be announced.
Honorable Mentions
Guaranteed inclusion in the 2021 Plein Air Festival juried exhibition.
Judging will be based on the artist’s mastery of the medium, quality of composition, and the use of perspective and color. In addition to outstanding ability in those areas, the artwork is assessed on intangible qualities such as its meaning, appeal, beauty, and the overall impact and expressiveness of the work.
All awards, with the exception of the People’s Choice award, will be announced at the Awards Celebration and Art Sale taking place at OMA on Saturday, July 31. The People’s Choice award will be announced after the close of the exhibition to the public, October 10, 2021.
Additional awards are in development. Please check back regularly for updated information.
Many thanks to our awards sponsors:
Deena Altman
Royal Talens
Southwest Art magazine
Chris Clevering
Festival Rules And Guidelines
- Artwork in any media is allowed—non-traditional is encouraged!
Contact Katie Dolgov at OMA to discuss your non-traditional submissions (media other than painting, drawing, or sculpture). - At least 80% of the artwork must be completed out of doors. If there is any concern that a larger percentage of your artwork was completed in the studio, you will be asked to provide progression snapshots of your work being completed en plein air.
- Artwork may be in any style (Impressionism, Realism, Abstract, etc.).
- There is no limit to the number of surfaces you may have stamped.
- Artists may only choose two works to submit for awards and jurying.
- Every artist will receive two stickers in their welcome pack to accompany their artworks for submission. Carefully print the artwork title and price on the label for each piece submitted. These will be used as the wall labels, so confirm all information is legible.
- Artists may sign the front or the back of their artwork.
- Artists must wear identifying badges while painting. Badges will be provided in your welcome pack.
- There is no defined painting area. However, at least one artwork must be painted in Oceanside. (View a map of suggested painting locations here.)
- 2D work is required to be framed and ready to hang when it is delivered to the museum.
- Maximum 2D size: 24" x 36" not including frame.
- Maximum 3D size: 24" x 24" x 24".
- Artists are encouraged to create small works (under 10" on each side), which are often collector favorites.
- The sale price should take into account a 50% commission to OMA.
- Sales tax of 8.25% will be added to all art sales.
- Artwork does not need to be marked for sale, NFS is allowed.
- It is suggested that you bring all the supplies and frames that you will need.
Quick Paint Challenge Entry Information And Requirements (subject to change)
Join us for the Quick Paint Challenge, a timed open-air painting event open to all festival registrants. Quick Paint participants will set up within a designated area with a stamped blank canvas and their supplies. Painting will start at the sound of the first horn. When the second horn sounds, brushes must be placed down. The finished creation may be sold off the easel (see the Art Sales tab), submitted onsite to OMA staff for further sales opportunities, or packed up as a personal keepsake. Artwork submitted to OMA staff must be framed.
- The Quick Paint Challenge will be held on Tuesday, July 27, 2:00-4:00pm at a location to be determined.
- Any artist who has registered for the festival is welcome to participate in this event. The public will be invited to observe, but walk-on participation is prohibited.
- To be valid for the Quick Paint Challenge, all canvases must be stamped prior to the beginning of the event. Canvas stamping will be available onsite at OMA July 24–29, 11:00am–5:00pm.
- Artists will have two hours to paint during the Quick Paint Challenge.
- All artwork created during the event may be available for sale at OMA throughout the week of the festival, if the artist chooses to mark the artwork for sale.
- If an artwork does not sell during the week and the artist would like to have it returned to them, they will be responsible for picking it up from the museum or paying the shipping fees.
Terms And Conditions
By registering, artists acknowledge and authorize the use of photos taken throughout the event, which may include artists and their artwork, for promotional use online and in printed materials for future events.
Artists acknowledge and agree that Oceanside Museum of Art will retain 50% of the sale price of individual art sales generated during the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate in plein air workshops and attend lectures even if I am not registered for the festival?
Yes, anyone can participate in OMA's ticketed programs. Festival registrants receive a 25% discount on ticketed workshops, artist talks, and lectures during the festival. Workshop participation is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I participate in the Quick Paint Challenge or other non-ticketed painting events even if I am not registered for the festival?
No, only registered festival participants can take part in the Paint Out: Sunset Sonatas on the Sand, (Monday, July 26, 6:30-8:00pm), Paint Out: Quick Paint Challenge and Art Sale, (Tuesday, July 27, 2:00-4:00pm), Paint Out: Nocturnal Notes (Wednesday, July 28, 6:30-8:00pm), and Paint Out: Farmers Market (Thursday, July 29, 10:00am-12:00pm). Registered artists must present their Festival Badge to participate in any non-ticketed programs.
If my artwork is chosen for the exhibition, does it need to stay in the exhibition if it sells?
Yes, all artwork chosen for the exhibition must remain at the museum until the exhibition closes on October 10.
Can I get the surface on which I will create art stamped before the competition starts?
No. Stamping begins at 11:00am on July 24, 2021.
Can I get more surfaces on which I will create art stamped after I’ve checked in?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of surfaces you may have stamped. Surfaces may be stamped July 24–29, 11:00am-5:00pm.
Are there limitations on where I may paint?
There is no defined painting area. However, at least one artwork must be painted in Oceanside. (View a map of suggested painting locations here.)
How do I get my artwork back at the end of the exhibition?
Artwork may be picked up on Thursday, October 14 and Friday, October 15 from the museum. Shipping can be arranged for artists who do not live within driving distance of the museum. If artwork sells from the exhibition, the buyer will be responsible for arranging transportation. Further details for artwork return will be shared with exhibiting artists within the weeks after the exhibition opens. Dates are subject to change.
May I sign my artwork?
Yes, you may sign your artwork on the front or back.
Is there an age restriction to participate?
All ages are welcome and encouraged.
I need to cancel my registration for the festival or a program. May I have a refund?
Refunds are not available for the registration fees or program fees associated with this festival. If you are unable to attend the festival or program you registered for, the fees will become a tax-deductible donation to the museum.
What level of student can apply?
High school or college students may participate. Students must show a valid photo ID for the spring, summer, or fall 2021 terms to qualify for free registration.
What kind of student ID will be accepted for free registration?
Students will need to present a valid high school or college ID for the Spring, Summer, or Fall 2021 term when they check in for the festival at OMA.
Are there any hotels close to the museum?
There are a number of stunning hotels within walking distance of OMA. Click here for details or connect with Dana [(760) 637-9953] and Michelle [(760) 458-6016] for more personal concierge service. They are available to help you find accommodations that suit your style as well as make recommendations for dining and local side trips while you’re in Oceanside.
What if I have a question that is not answered here?
Click here to email Katie Dolgov with any further questions.
