ABout

Plein Air Duluth is a non-competitive weekend of organized paint-outs, artist socials, a Sunday workshop, and a public reception for display and sale of finished paintings. The weekend event is open to all. The Sunday workshop is free for OPM members and GLAFA students/faculty, and $25 for community members who wish to participate.

In 2025, artists began with a social event at Canal Park Brewing and then a nocturnal paint-out around Canal Park. On Saturday morning, they were treated to a harbor cruise on the Vista Queen tourist ship in partnership with the Lake Superior Research Institute from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. A representative from LSRI shared a tour of the harbor and an exciting explanation of lake research that will be conducted from their new vessel, the Sadie Ann. The afternoon included paint-outs around Duluth, dinner at Blackwoods Restaurant, and the annual tradition of celebrating at artist Matt Kania’s home.

On Sunday, Cloquet artist Adam Swanson gave a demonstration and workshop on acrylic painting techniques, as well as his own inspiration and experiences with international artist residencies, research stations, and ocean research expeditions. This was followed by a public reception to display and sell paintings at the Great Lakes Atelier of Fine Art.

In 2026, OPM plans to host more organized paint-outs, expanded marketing, and a whole lot of fun painting! Stay tuned for the announcement of dates and activities.