Woodbury Plein Air 2025 – A Grand Experiment in Art and Community Making

 The Town of Woodbury and the Woodbury Arts Council are proud to announce Woodbury Plein Air 2025, a unique celebration of art, nature, and community, taking place Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the stunning Earl Reservoir.  A plein air event (from the French term en plein air, meaning "in the open air") is a gathering or organized activity where artists create artwork—usually paintings—outdoors, directly in the landscape or environment they are depicting. These events celebrate the practice of working from life, rather than from photographs or studio setups, and they emphasize spontaneity, natural light, and direct engagement with the surroundings. 

This special event invites artists of all levels—from seasoned plein air painters to curious newcomers—to come together in one of Orange County’s most beautiful natural locations. With open skies, wooded trails, a lakefront beach, and panoramic views from the hilltop, the Earl Reservoir offers an inspiring backdrop for creativity and connection.

Usually only open to Woodbury residents, for one day only all are welcome, the event is more than just a painting day—it’s a community celebration. Attendees will enjoy a vibrant mix of live music, local flavor, and activities for all ages throughout the day.

Earl Reservoir will be open and accessible all day for FREE, to participate in Plein Air Competition and Guided Plein Air Activity please register below, registration  will incur a fee to cover expenses for activity. Weather your competing or would like to experience beauty of Earl Reservoir, park goers will get to tour and view the painting competition as it happens, our competition will conclude at 4:30 pm when the Jury Prize will be announced.

Plein Air Competition!
Registered artists will have the opportunity to compete for a $300 Jury Prize awarded to the top plein air painting of the day. Judging will take place during a community viewing at the end of the event.

Special Guided Painting Activity
From 1:00–2:30 PM, join our guided plein air painting activity—perfect for beginners, families, or anyone curious to try outdoor painting in a fun, supportive setting. Special discounted registration available for adult–child painting pairs!

Event Registration is CLOSED

Special thanks to the Orange County NY Arts Council for partnering with us and to our producing partner Media Sutra Inc.