SEDONA PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL is an homage to the spirit and innovation of the great French Impressionists whose paintings were based on the belief that 'you should trust your eyes' to capture the beauty that surrounds you. As with the old masters, contemporary plein-air artists paint from life in the out-of-doors (en plein air), capturing moments in time that reflect the ever-changing colors, light and shadows, temperature and shifting elements. The art form requires stamina, focus, and the ability to be completely absorbed in the work regardless of what Mother Nature is throwing at them. There is no setting more perfect than Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon in late October to find vibrant, unexpected scenic beauty. It is truly an artist's paradise.  Thirty-two award-winning artists, selected from among the best of the best, have accepted invitations to participate in this unique artistic showcase. They are coming from all over the United States to spend eight days painting en plein air, and to share their incredible talent and unique experiences with this challenging art form.

The Festival is an invitational event. 

Invitations are privately extended to artists who meet the following criteria:
    - Have earned regional/national recognition as a plein-air artist
    - Have current fine art gallery representation with sales and 
      regional/national media exposure
    - Have participated in other national plein-air festivals within the  
       last two years and received awards for their work

Selection consideration also includes: 
      - Artists represent a variety of media and styles
      - Approximately 30% of participating artists from Arizona
      - At least 30% are new to the Festival each year

The slate of artists is complete for the 2011 Festival 

For consideration for the 2012 Festival, please submit the following no later than December 15, 2011

• A letter of inquiry explaining your interest in the Festival with an active link to your Website
• A current resume that verifies a match to the above criteria
• Five examples of current plein air artwork on CD or DVD

Send the information to:

        Plein Air Festvial Artist Selection
        Sedona Arts Center
        PO Box 569
        Sedona, AZ 86339