More than 30 area artists will use Barrington’s historic buildings, homes, parks and surroundings as inspiration for works of art during this year’s Paint the Town Barrington.
All artists work “in plein air,” a French term meaning outdoors in the open air, from Sept. 27 through Oct. 5. The public is invited to meet the artists, attend the awards reception and purchase their works, beginning at 2 p.m. Oct. 5 at Barrington’s White House.
“Our goal is to continue to promote the arts and make Barrington a cultural hub in the northwest suburbs,” says Janette Tepas, head of the Barrington Area Artists Association. She’s also a member of the Barrington Area Cultural Commission and a volunteer at Barrington’s White House.
During their time in town, artists are challenged to paint scenes and/or subjects within village limits and do most of their work outdoors. The artists bring their own canvases to cover in watercolor, acrylic or oil. Each artist can paint several pictures, but only one can be judged and up to three works can be sold.
This year’s judge is Dan Danielson of Wheaton. He teaches at the DuPage Art League and at the Peninsula School of Art in Door County, Wis. The award-winning artist has earned much recognition for his watercolor paintings.
The participating artists compete for cash prices, including a first-place award of $500.
“Art is something that never loses value. It’s an essential part of any community and makes life worth living,” says Brian Coyle, the Village of Barrington’s new director of cultural affairs, a title that includes creating and coordinating art events for Barrington’s White House. “Most everyone enjoys some form of art and feels fulfilled by art and music, whether they create it or appreciate it.”
To learn more about Paint the Town Barrington, visit barringtonswhitehouse.com. Barrington’s White House is located at 145 W. Main St.
Paint the Town Puts Artists ‘in Plein Air’
