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All artists ages 18 and older are invited to paint the splendor of nature found in this beautiful community park in Northbrook, Illinois. This premier outdoor area features over 100 acres of natural prairie, serene trails, active athletic fields, a golf course, Anetsberger pond and fishing areas. Register for this weekend event to capture the beauty of nature “En Plein Air.”

Begin Artist Registration

Painting and Drawing Rules

The Northbrook Park District and the Northbrook Arts Commission reserve the right to reject any art that does not meet our expectations or conform to the norms of the community. Art not adhering to our rules and restrictions will not be considered for admission or display.

  • Paintings are to be executed “en Plein Air” out of doors in any painting medium, from direct observation of the subject matter within the boundaries of Techny Prairie Park and Fields.
  • Only 2 (stamped) pieces will be judged, pick your best.
  • All artwork must be framed and ready to hang with appropriate wire. Gallery-wrapped canvases 1.5-inch deep are allowed as long as the edges are finished and dry.
  • Artwork (unframed) size must not exceed 20” in any direction.
  • Images of artists participating in, and artwork produced during the Paint the Prairie Plein Air Event may be used in event publicity (website, social media, flyers, poster, advertisements, etc.)
  • Regardless of cause, the artist agrees to bear all risk and expenses for any loss, theft or damage to their artwork or other personal property or injury to their person.

Schedule of Events

Friday, September 6, 2024

  • Festivities begin on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the Prairie Room at Techny Prairie Activity Center, 180 Anets Drive, Northbrook, IL.
  • Registered artists can have their canvases stamped and pick up their welcome packets and badges.
  • Meet and greet other artists, from 4pm-7pm. Food and drinks will be available.

Saturday, September 7, 2024

  • Canvas stamping will be available from 7:30am-4pm Saturday and Sunday from 7:30am-1pm.
  • Finished, signed, framed and ready to hang paintings can be dropped off at the Prairie Room all day on Saturday, September 7 until 5pm and Sunday, 7am-1pm.
  • Artist must complete the inventory submission form, W-9 form and labels for each piece.
  • Two pieces will be judged, so bring your best work.
  • Framing assistance, hanging wire and supplies will be available on a framing table.

Sunday, September 8, 2024

  • Check-in continues at the Prairie Room as needed from 7am-2pm
  • All work must be turned into the Prairie Room by 2pm
  • Judging will begin at 2pm

Award Ceremony and Competition Prizes

All submitted artwork will be judged beginning at 2pm on Sunday, September 8. The awards will be presented at 3:30pm in the Prairie Room.

Event Awards
First Place – $500.00
Second Place – $250.00
Third Place – $150.00
(4) Honorable Mention – $50.00

Artist packets with full event details will be available on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

Begin Artist Registration

All times and details above are subject to change.

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