August 21, 2023 3:20 a.m. 

In the KQEN Cultural Spotlight:

Umpqua Valley Arts five-day plein air paint out event is underway, bringing artists to Douglas County to capture the landscapes and historic locations of this area.

The 13th annual event is featuring over fifty-five artists in locations including: The North Umpqua River and waterfall trails, Umpqua Valley wineries, downtown Oakland and many county parks and natural features.

UVA Community Outreach Director Sarah Holborow said, “It’s an honor to host an event that every year captures a moment in time in the everchanging landscapes that surround us”. Holborow said, “The exhibit is a tribute to the inspiring land we inhabit and an artistic representation of the deep connection between land and vibrant communities”.

After nearly a week of painting in the great outdoors, artists will display and sell their work in UVA galleries during a nine-week exhibition. The pieces created by participants will be installed, juried, judged, and made eligible for purchase awards. This year’s guest juror is Portland-based artist and plein air expert, Erik Sangren.

The exhibition will be on view for the first time at the 2023 Umpqua Valley Plein Air Opening Reception on Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will include small bites and sips, live music, awards and remarks from the guest juror, and a celebration of the featured artists.

After the opening celebration, the new exhibit can be experienced free of charge through October 27th during the normal operating hours: Tuesdays through Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

More information about UVA is at: www.uvarats.com