I always say I’m not in the market to buy art, but then I find myself in awe of all the talented artists and know that window shopping may not be enough. Even if I don’t buy art, I am always in the market to experience it. I love the possibility of seeing an artist in various Adirondack locations, putting creativity onto canvas. The benefit of a Plein Air Festival is in seeing those artists create in nature and then attend the art show to meet and discuss their process.

Each Plein Air Festival starts with receptions, workshops, and community tours. A open and friendly format allows the artists freedom of expression and an opportunity to gather with like-minded people. The end of each festival culminates in a preview and two-day art show.

The Keeseville Plein Air Festival continues to be such a success that ADKAction is bringing the same format back for its third year. The first few days focus on the artist with a July 9 opening reception and host dinners. Each participant must provide a canvas to be stamped for the official event. That stamped canvas demonstrates the authenticity of the artist’s open-air work. As soon as the canvas has been stamped, artists can get to work.

Usually, Plein Air Festivals offer participants the opportunity to meet and workshop with successful plein air artists. The Keeseville Plein Air Festival is no exception. Patrick Mcphee’s Saturday workshop still has open spots for participants to purchase. Mcphee’s art showcases his love of nature and his concern for the environment.

All participants are welcome to commence opening painting through July 12. That evening there will be

The preview wine and cheese party ($10) will take place on July 12. That event, and the two-day art show (July 13-14) are held at festival headquarters, 1719 Block Gallery and free to the public.

Look for these additional Plein Air Festivals around the Adirondacks: The Adirondack Plein Air Festival around Saranac Lake August 12-17; VIEW Old Forge August 29-31; and Tupper Lake Arts Center October 9-12. Enjoy art!