schedule of events

The Town of Valdese, Friends of Valdese Rec, and the Rock School Arts Foundation
welcome you to join us for the 2025 Valdese Plein Air Fest!

First, a little about Plein Air. Plein air, pronounced "plehn air," is a French term that translates to "open air." It refers to the act of creating art, particularly painting, outdoors, directly in the natural environment, rather than in a studio or from reference photographs. It’s a perfect fit for Valdese, a picturesque small town in the foothills of Western North Carolina, nestled between Mineral Springs Mountain and Lake Rhodhiss. Known for celebrations, Valdese also features beautiful parks, a quaint walkable downtown, and a truly unique heritage showcased in a variety of attractions.

Applications available July 1st – September 1st, 2025

Plein Air Workshops:

Saturday, August 23rd, 2025

Want to “brush up” on your painting skills? We’re holding an outdoor/indoor painting basics workshop featuring award-winning artist Manny Maldonado on August 23rd. All materials are provided and the cost is just $45 per participant. Send email to rsaf1893@gmail.com to sign up. 

Artist Check-In and Canvas Stamping:

September 19th from 8am to 5pm & September 20th from 9am to 12pm

Location: Old Rock School, 400 Main Street West, Valdese, NC 28690,

Artists check-in and bring the surfaces they will use to paint on during the event for stamping. Only stamped canvases will be admitted for judging and sale. A check-in packet will include information about the town of  Valdese, and the beauty and vitality of our foothills home. 

Artwork Submissions:

September 20th, Time: 4pm to 7pm
Location: Old Rock School, 400 Main Street West, Valdese, NC 28690

Artists bring their final works (some of them will still have wet paint!) to the Rock School, where they will be checked in, labeled, hung and prepared for the exhibition, reception, and awards ceremony on Sunday.

Wet Sale & Reception:
September 21, Time: 2pm to 4pm
Location: Old Rock School, 400 Main Street West, Valdese, NC 28690
This is the big day!  The evening features the work of the plein air artists, a wet paint sale, the awards for winning entries, and a wonderful selection of hors d’oeuvres. This reception is free to the public- we invite all to attend!