The Salmon River Valley Plein Air Festival Returns

SALMON RIVER VALLEY, NY – The Thrive Project with the Downtown Artist Cellar (DAC), a leading art gallery and community space, is thrilled to announce the second annual Salmon River Valley Plein Air Festival. This year’s event will feature over 20 talented plein air artists from around the region, each bringing their unique perspective to capture the stunning beauty of the Salmon River Valley.

The festival is a celebration of art, nature, and community, showcasing the transformative power of creativity. Taking place from September 18th to September 21st, the festival aims to bring together the community in support of art and creativity, fostering a deeper connection to the unique charm and natural wonders of the area. DAC believes in the transformative power of art, and the 4-day festival serves as an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the artistic spirit that defines our community.

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE:

SEPTEMBER 18TH - SEPTEMBER 20TH

Community Painting Sessions from Wednesday to Friday, over 20 plein air artists will be setting up their easels throughout the town, turning the scenic landscapes into their open-air studios. Community members and art enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the town and witness these talented artists in action. Whether along the riverbanks, in parks, or in the heart of downtown, spectators can observe different painting techniques, engage with the artists, and gain a deeper appreciation for plein air art.

SEPTEMBER 20TH - FRIDAY

Festival Preview Party, Meet the Artists, and Awards Ceremony | 6 - 8 PM Downtown Artist Cellar | Awards at 7:30 PM Join us for an exclusive preview of the extraordinary artwork created during the festival at the Preview Party. This special event offers the public a chance to interact with the artists, view their works, and celebrate their creative achievements. Tickets are available for $15 per person, granting access to the preview, artist interactions, and light refreshments, including beer and wine. Artists and sponsors are invited to attend at no cost as a token of appreciation for their valuable contributions. Tickets are limited,

reserve yours now for this unforgettable evening.

SEPTEMBER 21ST - SATURDAY THE THRIVE PROJECT "QUICK DRAW" BENEFIT | 9 - 11 AM Exhibit, Sale, Silent Auction, and Community Workshop | 12 - 4 PM

The final day of the festival will feature an exciting lineup of events. Kicking off with The Thrive Project’s "Quick Draw" benefit, artists will have two hours to create a plein air painting on-site, testing their skills under time pressure. The artworks created will be auctioned in a silent auction, with proceeds supporting The Thrive Project’s mission to encourage creativity and community connection. Following the Quick Draw, the public is invited to attend a vibrant exhibit and sale of the plein air paintings created during the festival. This is a fantastic opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to engage directly with artists, gain insight into their work, and purchase original pieces that capture the unique spirit of the region. A special community workshop will also be held during the exhibit, inviting participants of all ages and skill levels to express their creativity under the guidance of experienced artists. Admission to the final day of the festival is free, and everyone is welcome to attend.

The Salmon River Valley Plein Air Festival is a celebration of art, nature, and community. With over 20 artists participating from around the region, the festival provides a platform for artists to showcase their talents and for the community to engage with the beauty of their surroundings through art. The festival is organized by Downtown Artist Cellar, a hub for creativity that believes in the power of art to connect people and inspire positive change.

The Thrive Project is dedicated to supporting arts education and community engagement, offering free workshops and fostering connections between artists and the public. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit The Thrive Project’s ongoing efforts to inspire courageous creativity and foster community connections. For more information about the Salmon River Valley Plein Air Festival, tickets, or event details, please visit downtownartistcellar.com.